The shock of the events this week has reverberated worldwide, and our hearts go out to those in our community impacted by the fires Upcountry, Kīhei, and Lāhainā.  The trauma and rebuilding will be long-lasting and we wanted to share news, resources, and ways you can help. There are larger agencies at work, but also local ones that have mobilized to offer donations, volunteers, and resources.

  • Maui Rapid Response website has a great list of donation locations/links, shelters, an intake form to sign up to volunteer or offer housing, and more. Follow their Instagram for daily updates on donation and volunteer needs as it is changing by the minute. Be mindful of what you bring to donation locations as they may be overwhelmed and are sometimes working with limited space/resources. Maui Fire, Flood and Disaster relief group is also an excellent hub of information.
  • The Maui Food Bank is another great organization to support and will be here for the long recovery ahead.
  • The Maui Humane Society could use donations as well as foster homes for many displaced animals. They’ve created this donation hub on Facebook, but you can also bring food, carriers, dog/cat beds, collars/leashes, cat litter, towels, and more to the shelter.
  • If you feel comfortable in the kitchen, the Maui Disaster Relief Food Prep group, led by the island’s culinary community, has been coordinating food drops to shelters and more from UH. Some volunteer shifts require cooking experience, but other tasks like serving/cleaning just need willing hands.
  • People trying to locate loved ones who may be impacted by the fires can call the American Red Cross hotline at 1-800-733-2767. You can also fill out this People Locator coordinated by Maui’s own Maui Rapid Response Team. 
  • The Family Assistance Center for those seeking information on loved ones and for those who are unaccounted for is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 a.m. at the Kahului Community Center, 275 Uhu Street. Maui Emergency Management Agency and FAC staff will work with families and individuals to gather detailed information and administer DNA swabs.

Remember to take care of yourselves during this time and hold your ʻohana tight. If we can do anything for you, please contact us at [email protected].