Extending Aloha: How to help those affected by the Maui wildfires
As the Maui wildfires continue to test the resilience of the island's community, the outpouring of support and solidarity -- the extension of aloha -- serves as a beacon of hope.
At least 99 people are now confirmed dead from the devastating wildfires in Maui, and questions abound about the lack of warning to residents when the fire spread.
The death toll has continued to climb following devastating Maui wildfires, and officials fear that the number will keep growing. Already, the blaze that scorched Lahaina is the deadliest fire in the U.S. in more than 100 years. Much of Lahaina has been destroyed, including several cherished landmarks steeped in history and of cultural importance to Maui.
Officials warn that there's a long road to recovery ahead for the affected communities.
As more destruction came to light in recent days, AccuWeather increased its estimate of the total damage and economic loss from the devastating wildfires burning in Hawaii to $14-16 billion on Monday -- up from its preliminary estimate last week of $8-10 billion in losses.
As the community rallies together, and people across the world lend a helping hand, there are several ways people can contribute and make a difference for the Maui wildfire victims.
Whether looking to donate money or items or volunteer time, people can vet charities and organizations using tools such as Charity Navigator, CharityWatch, or GuideStar.
The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross Maui Chapter is actively involved in providing shelter, food and comfort to those displaced by the wildfires. The Red Cross is accepting monetary donations to support its relief efforts. Contributions can be made online through its website, specifying that the donation is intended for the Maui wildfire relief.
The Red Cross is on the ground in Hawaii continuing to provide relief to victims of the devastating wildfires in Hawaii.
Maui United Way
Maui United Way has set up a Maui Fire and Disaster Relief Donation page, where visitors can contribute monetary donations online. "All donations will provide direct relief to families and nonprofits directly affected by the Maui Fire Disaster," Maui Nui Strong stated on its website.
Maui Food Bank
According to the Maui Food Bank website, where monetary donations can be submitted online, it will offer food to disaster relief efforts. "With every $1 donated, the Maui Food Bank can provide four meals to the hungry living in our island community. Give now and together we can make a difference," its website reads.
Mercy Chefs
Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization, is on the ground in Maui partnering with local churches to offer meals and resources to those affected by the wildfires, as well as first responders and volunteers. To support Mercy Chefs in its disaster response, visit its site on Maui wildfires.
World Central Kitchen
According to the World Central Kitchen (WCK) website, its "teams are on the ground working with local partners to get much-needed meals to evacuees and emergency workers." Visitors can donate money to help WCK feed those affected by the devastating fires.
AccuWeather spoke live with World Central Kitchen on Aug. 14 about their efforts to feed evacuees and emergency workers in the hardest-hit areas of Maui.
Maui Humane Society
Maui Humane Society will be providing supplies and emergency kits to shelters, according to its website. Visitors can donate money to assist in its fire disaster relief efforts.
Local Community Centers
Several community centers across Maui have been transformed into temporary shelters for evacuees. These centers are in need of food, water, clothing and essential supplies to support displaced people. Donating non-perishable food items, clean clothing, blankets and toiletries directly to these centers can make an immediate impact.
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Social Media efforts to mobilize support
In addition to monetary and material donations, social media has proven to be a powerful tool in mobilizing support. Hashtags like #MauiWildfireRelief and #MauiStrong are spreading awareness about the ongoing crisis and encouraging people worldwide to contribute to relief efforts. Sharing stories, updates and information about donation drives and volunteer opportunities has helped amplify the impact of community initiatives.
Volunteer opportunities
Apart from monetary donations, many local organizations are seeking volunteers to help with various tasks, such as distributing supplies, providing emotional support and assisting in cleanup efforts once it's safe to do so. Check with local community centers, churches and non-profit organizations for volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved.
For more information, visit Maui Strong, another resource providing a comprehensive guide on how to help.
As the Maui wildfires continue to test the resilience of the island's community, the outpouring of support and solidarity -- the extension of aloha -- serves as a beacon of hope.
"Aloha is the true meaning and symbol of the Hawaiian culture and lifestyle: respect and love one another, and live in harmony with everything around you. Aloha is not something that is spoken, it is something that must be experienced," according to Skyline Hawaii.
AI was used for idea generation in this article. All information has been vetted, confirmed and edited by the AccuWeather editorial team.
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