Maui Crisis: A Time to Help

by Keliʻi Akina, Ph.D., Trustee-at-Large, Office of Hawaiian Affairs

Words cannot describe the tragedy that has befallen our beloved residents and visitors on the island of Maui.

The horrendous destruction of out-of-control wildfires, especially the loss of life and property in Lahaina, is shocking and brings overwhelming sorrow for everyone in our state.

Yet, the outpouring of compassion that we are witnessing from the people of Hawai‘i is the silver lining through the dark cloud of despair.

On my home island of O’ahu, immediately after the wildfires ravaged Maui, I was privileged to join scores of volunteers at the state capitol building to collect supplies that were dropped off by thousands of residents.

I saw firsthand the generosity of the people on the Island of O‘ahu and their support for the victims on the Valley Isle.

The path to full recovery will be arduous and take many decades. There will come a time to ask the difficult questions and to demand of our leaders and each other a full accounting.

But for now, it is a time to reach out in compassion and help those in need. As the tragic death count rises every day and individuals are left destitute without homes and the basic needs for life, let’s unite to help them.

Here is a list of ways that you and I can help. Please take a moment to visit this link: Help Maui Fire Victims: Here's Where You Can Donate.

E Hana kākou! (Let’s work together!)