The island of Maui is suffering ongoing destruction from widespread wildfires that began on Tuesday, August 8, 2023. The fires have severely impacted the town of Lahaina in West Maui, destroying countless homes and businesses in their wake.
A place rich with memories, this natural disaster in one of the world’s most beloved vacation destinations has many in the travel community asking how they can help. Below is a list of local and national organizations where people can donate and volunteer to help those in need.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is accepting donations to its Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. A donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund helps the Red Cross prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters.
The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
In partnership with Alakaʻina Foundation Family of Companies and Kākoʻo Haleakalā, The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is matching up to $250,000 in donations toward disaster relief. Click here to give now.
GlobalGiving
GlobalGiving launched the Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund which will provide food, water and supplies to those impacted by the fire. Funds will also support long-term recovery efforts of locally-run organizations and low-income, historically underserved communities.
GoFundMe
GoFundMe is acting as a centralized hub to host fundraisers in support of people and places impacted by the fires. The page is regularly updated with verified fundraisers and is monitored by GoFundMe’s Trust & Safety team.
The Hawai’i Community Foundation
The Hawai’i Community Foundation launched the Maui Strong Fund to, “provide community resilience with resources for disaster preparedness, response and recovery,” according to the organization’s website. At this time, the fund is being used to support those impacted by the Maui wildfires. Interested parties can contact Donor Services at donorservices@hcf-hawaii.org or call 808-566-5560 to learn more. To donate online click here.
Highgate Hawaii
Highgate Hawaii launched the LOVE MAUI assistance program to raise funds for affected families.
Maluhia Collective
Maluhia Collective is organizing supply drop-offs for first responders from the Maui Fire Department. Desired donations include snacks and premade food and drinks. Donations will be compiled and sent to fire stations. For more information, visit Maluhia Colelctive’s Instagram page.
Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy is raising funds and donating essential items to its Hawaii associates through the TakeCare Relief Fund. Marriott Bonvoy is also matching Marritt Bonvoy point donations made to the Marriott Disaster Relief Fund.
Maui Food Bank
Maui Food Bank is accepting donations and looking for volunteers. Visit Maui Food Bank’s website to submit a monetary donation, learn more about food collection and distribution or sign up as an emergency volunteer.
Maui Humane Society
The Maui Humane Society is asking people to foster displaced animals during this time of need. Additionally, The Maui Humane Society is accepting donations to cover funds for food and shelter for the animals. Visit the Maui Fire Pets Help Facebook Group for the latest updates from the Maui Humane Society surrounding wildfire relief. People can report a lost or found pet here.
The Maui Mutal Aid Fund
The Maui Mutual Aid Fund is collecting donations to assist those impacted by the fires. The group shared on its Instagram that, “All funds will be distributed as quickly as possible to vulnerable Ohana in need, kupuna, persons with physical disabilities, renters and those who have no insurance or are underinsured.”
Maui United Way
Maui United Way is accepting donations to its Maui Fire and Disaster Relief fund.
New Life Kahuku Inc.
Nonprofit organization, New Life Kahuku Inc. is asking for donations to bring food and supplies to its “Lahaina Ohana.”
Salvation Army Hawaii
The Salvation Army is providing food and resources to evacuees. All donations will provide relief to those impacted by the fires.
The Lāhui Foundation
The Lāhui Foundation, a registered 501c3 non-profit organization serving underrepresented and underserved communities in Hawaii, is accepting monetary donations. Each donation will directly support fire recovery efforts and will assist local residents.
War Memorial Complex
The War Memorial Complex is accepting donations in the form of non-perishable food, bottled water, hygiene items and blankets on Thursday, August 10 from 8 a.m. through 6 p.m. Those looking to drop off donations are advised to enter the complex through Kanaloa Avenue. Note: Hot and perishable food cannot be accepted.
Visit the Hawaiian Tourism Authority’s website for the latest news and updates surrounding the disaster. If you or a loved one need help, reach out to the American Red Cross through the Disaster Distress Helpline by calling 1-800-985-5990 or texting ‘TALKWITHUS’ to 66746.
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