The most important ways you can help rebuild Lahaina.
In August of 2023, devastation hit our beloved island with a series of wildfires that would take over 100 souls and countless homes, businesses, and buildings. We are still working diligently to rebuild our beloved Lahaina. While we have been humbled by the outpouring of support we’ve received, we’ve also been asked the question “How can I help?” many times. To that end, we’ve put together our favorite resources that are dedicated to helping rebuild Lahaina! Keep reading for more on how you can work with each organization.
1) Where to Donate
Maui Strong
The Maui Strong Fund provides financial relief and resources to support the immediate and long-term recovery needs of the people and places that have been affected by the devastating Maui wildfires. They do this by collaborating with state & county leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community members. This helps give them a better understanding of the distribution of priorities as they evolve & change. You can follow this link for more.
Kākoʻo Maui Fund – Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
The Kākoʻo Maui Fund provides quickly deployed resources to efficiently support recovery efforts for Maui. CNHA also works closely in collaboration with state & county leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community members to disperse efforts where they are most needed. Funds donated to CNHA helps aid those in need with shelter, food, financial assistance, and any other services that may be identified as working to support Maui. You can support CNHA at this link.
Maui Food Bank
The spirit of Maui endures through all donations made to the Maui food bank. Therefore, for every dollar donated to the Maui Food Bank, a total of four meals are served to those in need on our island. Their mission is to collect and distribute food. To date, they have distributed over 3.25 million pounds of nutritious food. They’ve included ways for you to donate or get involved, at this link.
Maui United Way
Maui United Way has worked to fast-track grant approvals to existing organizations that are local and focused on fulfilling basic needs. Their work is guided by a deep desire to decrease long-standing disparities in our communities. Including the AAPI populations, especially Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations. 100% of all donations made to Maui United Way, stay in Hawaii, where they are needed most. For more information on contributing to their disaster relief, you can find Maui United Way, at this link.
2) Where to Visit & Volunteer
Maui Humane Society
During the tragic wildfires, many four-legged family members were displaced. Currently, the Maui Humane Society is in need of volunteers, fosters, and those who are willing to adopt. In addition to lending your heart to those services, they are also currently accepting monetary donations. On their website, you’ll find a link to their Amazon wishlist for much-needed pet food and accessories. For more on how you can work with the Maui Humane Society, find them online, here.
Maui Rapid Response
You can apply to take over a volunteer shift at Maui Rapid Response. Their mission is to create a lasting impact on the community through their work. But, in order to do so, they still need the assistance of volunteers. You can sign up for an available shift at this link. Additionally, they highly encourage return shifts. This allows you to get to know the depth of the tasks at hand along with the hands and hearts behind them.
If you’re looking for additional ways to offer your helping hands to rebuild Lahaina, you can find them at Maui Nui Strong. Their website is kept up to date with the dates and times of upcoming events and additional ways for you to offer your support.
3) Spread the Word
While the initial shock and devastation of the wildfires in Maui may have taper off on social media and news outlets, Lahaina is still very much in need. We understand that not everyone is able to give of their time or even financial resources. However, sharing the resources we’ve listed here, or using your voice to continue the conversation of rebuilding Lahaina is still needed. It’s been so amazing to see the support that we’ve received thus far from friends far and wide. A share on social media or a casual conversation around the dinner table is all it takes to keep the conversation going.
4) Shop & Buy Local
Undoubtedly, Maui’s economy was devastated in the wake of the wildfires. If you are local, we highly recommend shopping, dining, and supporting locally-owned businesses whenever and wherever possible. If you are not local, you can still purchase the goods and services of small businesses. Shop Maui Local.org has highlighted a selection of locally-owned businesses for those across the US to aid during this time.
