A noncomprehensive list of ways supporters can help those impacted by the fires on our sister island of Maui

Donate Money Instead of Supplies: Maui County officials have communicated that immediate needs for supplies are already met and the surge of excess donations can overwhelm systems. Consider donating money instead, as it allows organizations to allocate resources where they are most needed.

  1. Financial Donations: Consider donating to the following funds that are specifically focused on aiding Maui during this challenging time:
    • Hawaii Community Foundation Maui Strong fund: Focusing on rapid response and working with local nonprofits to understand community needs.
    • Maui Food Bank: Collecting and distributing food to help the hungry in Maui County.
    • Maui Humane Society: Supporting shelters for displaced people and animals, and caring for injured animals. Emergency fosters also sought.
    • Maui United Way: Providing direct relief to families and nonprofits. 
    • The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division: Providing food and resources for evacuees.
    • Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement: Matching up to $3 million in donations for Maui fire victims as of August 11. 
    • World Central Kitchen: Providing meals to people in need by partnering with local organizations.
  2. Beware of Fraud: It’s crucial to stay vigilant against potential exploitation. Unfortunately, some may take advantage of the situation. Be cautious of fraudulent activities. Refer to FEMA’s Disaster Fraud information.
  3. Avoid Self Deployment to Maui: Space on the island is limited and roads are congested. For questions about making large-scale donations of goods or services, reach out to the following to coordinate: 

Offer Housing Assistance

  • Residents can provide a space for displaced Maui residents to stay and realtors will help people. Email: jennifer@hikinorealty.com

Resources to Support Mental Health

  • Disaster distress helpline: Provides 24/7 crisis counseling. If you know someone who needs support, call or text 1-800-985-5990

  • School Safety and Crisis information: Offers resources for dealing with crisis situations, including information on school safety – especially valuable for families with children.

  • Child Trauma Resources: Provides resources specifically tailored to helping children cope with trauma caused by disasters. 

  • TeenLink hawaiʻi: Teenagers and Young Adults can find mental health support and services.

Information and Updates

  • Maui County Website: For the latest updates and info directly from Maui County. Stay informed about the ongoing situation and recovery efforts.

  • Reunification Assistance: The Red Cross offers a helpline for individuals seeking reunification assistance. If you’re looking for information about loved ones, please call 1 (800) 733-2767

  • Stay Informed: For updates on individuals accounted for and unaccounted for, visit this list that is updated throughout the day.

Mahalo to our friends at Vibrant Hawaiʻi for compiling the information above.