Maui residents are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance as fires continue to rage throughout the island. More than 50 people have tragically perished in the fires, and many are still unaccounted for as friends and family wait to hear from loved ones. Humanitarian aid organizations have been working continuously to provide as much assistance as possible.
Samaritan’s Purse has sent teams to Hawaii to assess the level of their relief response. Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains always also making their way to provide emotional and spiritual support to those who have been devastated by this tragedy. Samaritan’s Purse CEO Franklin Graham shared on Thursday, “Pray for residents, first responders, and leadership in the wake of this devastating disaster. We are working with local officials and churches to assess how Samaritan’s Purse Disaster Relief and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Rapid Response Chaplains can best help.”
USA Today has reported some of the organizations they have mobilized their teams to help Maui.
The Hawaii Community Foundation raised $1 million for its Maui Strong fund as of Wednesday. The organization released a statement sharing that funding is used for “evolving needs, including shelter, food, financial assistance and other services as identified by our partners doing critical work on Maui.”
New Life Kahuku Inc. is a nonprofit based in Kahuku that is asking for donations to “help bring food and supplies directly to individuals and families affected by this devastation.” The organization has raised more than $140,000 as of Wednesday.
Maluhia Collective, a local small business, is organizing supply drop-offs for first responders from the Maui Fire Department. Supplies include food items from snacks to drinks to pre-made meals.
The Maui Mutual Aid Fund is collecting donations to help the most vulnerable residents and tourists who are physically disabled and those who have no insurance or are underinsured.
The Maui Humane Society is working to rescue pets. They are asking for people who are able to foster the pets and/or donate items including dry and wet pet food, litter, and pop-up kennels.
The American Red Cross is helping residents and tourists get to shelters for refuge from the fires. The Red Cross is working with local, state and federal authorities and is expecting more help to come.
USA Today also reports that “Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara, from the Hawaii State Department of Defense, asked those who want to donate supplies or volunteer to do so through the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. James Kunane Tokioka, director of the department of business, economic development and tourism, said the governor has also asked people with vacant homes or vacation rentals to provide shelter for those in need.“
As the people of Maui continue to struggle with the destruction, confusion, and panic amid the wildfires, sending aid is crucial for their survival and relief. The people of Maui, the first responders, and the humanitarian aid organizations will all continue to be in our prayers.