A devastating wildfire in Maui, Hawaii, has caused extensive damage and claimed 53 lives, according to Maui County officials. In the aftermath of the disaster, several resources have been made available to aid in the search for missing persons, provide shelter, and offer support to those affected.
The American Red Cross is serving as a hub to reunite families, and can be reached at 1-800-RED-CROSS. A public spreadsheet has also been created, listing those who have been lost or separated. The Family Assistance Center at the Kahului Community Center is also aiding in the search for missing persons.
Shelter is being provided at multiple locations, including Maui Preparatory Academy, Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center, and Maui High School. For individuals seeking to leave Lahaina, mass bus evacuations are organized to depart from Whalers Village.
Various forms of aid are also available, including flexible flight options offered by Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines. The Office of Consumer Protection has implemented a price freeze for Maui, ensuring commodities are sold at pre-emergency price levels. Agricultural operations affected by the wildfires can apply for low-interest agricultural emergency loans through the HDOA’s Agricultural Loan Program.
Several ways to help are also in place. KHON2 will host a telethon with the American Red Cross, and GoFundMe has created a list of verified fundraisers. Monetary donations can be made on the websites of the Maui Food Bank, Maui Humane Society, and American Red Cross. The Hawaii Lions Club also has a private donor who will match funds up to $25,000.
The painful aftermath of the wildfires underscores the importance of community resilience and the power of collective action in the face of such devastating events. Despite the immense tragedy, these efforts represent a beacon of hope in the recovery process.