In a show of solidarity and community support, individuals and organizations across the State of California and the Bay Area are rallying to help the thousands of people displaced by the wildfires in Maui.
The Bay Area, boasting many ties to Hawaii, responded promptly to news of the deadly Maui wildfire. Organizations quickly arranged for the provision of supplies and aid to the area.
Hope Hanger, a food pantry in Mountain View, recently delivered supplies to Maui, in partnership with Vive Church. The donation included necessities such as diapers and wipes, based on a list of required items provided by the shelters.
The organization also created the Maui Hope Fund, which has raised over $9,000 to date.
The wildfire has destroyed more than 2,000 structures and decimated the entire town of Lahaina, leaving survivors grappling with the loss of their homes and businesses.
The California Fire Foundation, familiar with the devastating impacts of wildfires, is also lending a hand. Having raised funds to support those affected by the Camp and Carr fires, the foundation has now created a relief fund on behalf of the Hawaii Professional Firefighters’ Association. The funds collected will be distributed to those displaced on Maui and to the firefighters affected by the fires. Nearly $30,000 has been raised so far.
Donations can be made to the Hope Hangar Maui Fund and the California Fire Foundation Maui Relief Fund.
This response to the Maui wildfires underscores the importance of community support and humanitarian aid during times of crisis, and serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of communities across states and regions.