It is with great sorrow we share that our beautiful town of Lahaina has been struck with a deadly wildfire natural disaster that has inflicted irreversible damage to the island of Maui and its people. 

The catastrophic wildfires began on Tuesday night, and have now claimed the lives of at least 36 individuals and reduced most of the historic town to rubble and ash. Over 271 structures, some dating back almost 200 years, have been harmed or destroyed, and there are currently hundreds of people reported missing. 

The impact of the wildfires across Hawaii has been truly overwhelming, and we are utterly devastated for those who have lost their homes, businesses, and lives because of this disaster.

Where You Can Donate

If you want to join us in providing aid to victims of the wildfires, here's a list of trusted charities that are currently accepting donations: 

• Hawai'i Community Foundation is working with state and county officials to actively address evolving community needs such as shelter, food, financial aid, and essential services. Donate to the HCF Maui Strong Fund
• Maui Food Bank is accepting online donations and in-person non-perishable food donations at various locations across Hawaii for those who have lost their homes to the fire. Donate to The Maui Food Bank
• Maui Mutual Aid Fund is a locally-run volunteer-led charity group that is helping to aid vulnerable Maui residents like elderly individuals, people with disabilities, renters, and those without insurance. Donate to The Maui Mutual Aid Fund
• Maui Humane Society is in serious need of pet supplies to support the care of lost pets who have been separated from their owners by the fires. They are also seeking immediate foster homes for rescued pets. Donate to the Maui Humane Society
• The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is a nonprofit collaborating with Kamehameha Schools, Alakaʻina Foundation Family, and Kākoʻo Haleakalā to match donations up to $1,000,000 that will go towards the Maui wildfire relief efforts. Donate to the CNHA
• Many local restaurants, community centers, and schools are accepting donations of food, water, hygiene products, blankets, and other items for displaced individuals. You can find an active list of resource drop-off centers here: Maui Disaster Relief Coordination and Resource Guide

Other Helpful Resources & Information

If you can offer help, or you need help, you can find an actively updated list of resource centers here: Maui Disaster Relief Coordination and Resource Guide or visit the Maui Disaster Relief Group Facebook Page

If you're searching for a missing person impacted by the wildfires, you can utilize the Maui Fire Missing Persons Locator or call 1-800-733-2767 and select Option 4.

While Kahului Airport has been verified as operational by the Hawaii Department of Transportation, travelers are advised to exercise patience. 

All individuals are urged to avoid non-essential travel to the islands to free up accommodations and resources for displaced residents and emergency workers.

As of August 10, 2023, emergency shelters continue to operate at the War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku, Maui High School in Kahului, Hannibal Tavares Community Center in Pukalani, and the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu. Get more info and the latest updates at https://www.mauicounty.gov/

The aftermath of the fire on the shores of Lahaina. Photo: U.S. Civil Air Patrol

Our hearts are aching, but the strength of the Hawaiian people is unwavering, and together we can uplift one another through this grievous time. 

Our deepest sympathies extend to all affected individuals, and we are endlessly grateful to the heroes at the Maui Fire Department, and all the courageous emergency responders who have shown incredible dedication to aid our community.