Whether you’ve spent every summer in Hawaii or only witnessed its beauty through photos, it’s hard to sit back and watch the fires in Maui without feeling the need to help in any way possible. Tragically, a large number of residents lost their lives in the wildfires. And many many other residents across the island were forced to flee their homes with little-to-no warning after hurricane-strength winds fueled a wildfire that destroyed neighborhoods, including the town of Lahaina. Most locals lost everything but the clothes on their backs.
5 Ways to Help Maui in the Aftermath of the Tragic Wildfires
Published Aug 15, 2023
•5:34pm
PAULA RAMON/AFP/Getty Images
While there are several large-scale organizations that are offering assistance—like the American Red Cross—the victims need help *now*…not in six months when the donations are finally distributed. That’s why we compiled a list of five ways to help Maui, all of which offer immediate support to locals. There are countless relief funds and organizations to choose from, but these picks can serve as a starting point as you begin your own deeper research.
Keep scrolling for details.
PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP/Getty Images
1. Hana Hou Hospitality
If you want your money to go directly to locals who need it, consider donating to Hana Hou Hospitality. The group consists of five restaurants in the Lahaina area—two of which were destroyed by the fire (Down the Hatch and Breakwall Shave Ice Co.). They’re working diligently to not only rebuild what they lost but also to help their displaced staff members find housing and jobs. Mahalo!
PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP/Getty Images
4. Maui Humane Society
Countless animals have been displaced because of the fires. There are two ways you can help: 1) donate directly to the Maui Humane Society or 2) foster a pet.
