With each day, the devastation in the aftermath of the wildfires in Maui seems more ominous. The loss of life, homes, business, streets and communities is overwhelming. According to CNN the death toll has now reached 99 and is likely to be much higher in the coming weeks. Officials say this is the deadliest wildfire in deadliest in the United States in more than 100 years. Most of us feel helpless, but there are ways to help. Here, you’ll find 5 ways you can help with relief efforts in Maui.

ABC News reported that experts recommend waiting a week or to before jumping in with donations, while needs are being evaluated. Of course there are some who simply can’t wait. Donating to nonprofits based on Hawaii are strongly suggested, the ones that have a proven track record of “rapid response.” Right now food, shelter and financial assistance are what is needed most and immediately.

Most of us question, “how can we be sure our donations are guaranteed to reach those who need it most?” Regine Webster of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, shared with ABC that we should give to organizations with deep local ties and knowledge of the affected communities.” To help sort it all out, listed below, there are 5 ways you can help with relief efforts in Maui. But again, Webster stressed that waiting a bit to donate would be helpful as needs are assessed. Any amount is always helpful and appreciated.

 

  • 1. Hawai‘i Community Foundation

    The Maui Strong Fund provides financial resources “that can be deployed quickly, with a focus on rapid response and recovery for the devastating wildfires on Maui,” according to their website. The Governor of Hawaii recommends those interested donate to the Hawaii Community Foundation. Donations can be made on their website (below)or through nonprofit ‘Āina Momona.

    Maui Strong Fund

    Maui Strong

  • 2. Maui Food Bank

    The Maui Food Bank helps to provide meals for those residents who have lost their homes, or been displaced. According to the organization, ever $1 given can help provide 4 meals for those in need. 

    Maui Food Bank - Helping the Hungry in Maui County

    Maui Food Bank helps to provide hunger relief to those in need by collecting and distributing food to organizations and agencies throughout Maui County.

  • 3. Salvation Army of Hawaii

    The Salvation Army’s Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division is currently accepting donations to provide meals for the thousands of displaced residents in Maui emergency shelters. The link to help is here:

    Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division

    Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division

  • 4. Aloha United Way

    According to Today, the Aloha United way is a non-profit organization based in Honolulu. They created the Maui Fire Relief Fund and donations made here go directly toward efforts that support the victims of the Maui wildfires. 

    https://ignite.stratuslive.com/auw/get-involved/donate/mauirelief

  • 5. The American Red Cross

    The Red Cross is always there to help. They are currently looking for financial donations. Your money will go directly to help those affected, and right away. The Red Cross helps replace prescription medication, reading glasses, blankets and more. A $10 donation can provide a meal, and $5 a blanket, for example. (Boston.com) 

    American Red Cross

    Every 8 minutes the American Red Cross responds to an emergency. Support the Red Cross. Join us today by making a donation.

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