EFFORTS TO TRANSITION NCS FAMILIES TO INTERIM HOUSING RAMP UP

News Release from HI-EMA, June 21, 2024

LAHAINA, MAUI – In a continued effort to support the 200 households (more than 500 individuals) currently residing in Non-Congregate Sheltering (NCS) hotels, the NCS program has been extended until June 30, 2024. This extension underscores the extraordinary efforts and commitment of the state of Hawaiʻi and the Red Cross – to ensure that all families transition from the current sheltering program to interim housing solutions as quickly as possible, facilitating their path to recovery.

“Our objective remains clear – to transition all families from the current sheltering program to an interim housing solution swiftly, helping them on their journey to recovery,” said Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency Administrator James Barros. “We are fully committed to assisting every family with transitioning to their next step solutions.”

In recent days, numerous NCS families have optimistically moved into interim housing units provided by the state of Hawaiʻi or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), marking significant progress in the recovery efforts. The state continues to encourage wildfire survivor families to enroll in the state’s Disaster Case Management (DCM) program. Interested families can join the waitlist by calling 211 – for information or to register into the DCM program.

Since the Maui wildfires of August 2023, the state NCS program has supported nearly 3,000 families, totaling approximately 8,000 individuals. This support has been instrumental in providing immediate relief and stability to those affected by the disaster.

“We are grateful for the unwavering support of our major stakeholders and partners,” added Barros. “Their contributions and exemplary efforts have been vital in our ongoing efforts to assist families impacted by the wildfires. It’s been a kākou effort from day one.”

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The mission of the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency is to help the Hawaiʻi ʻohana prepare for, mitigate against, respond to, and recover from disaster.