Maui Wild Fires Relief Fund: One Year Later

Joint statement from Immediate Past District 5000 Governor, Mark Merriam and Rotary District 5000 Foundation President, Dave Hamil.

August 8, 2024

Today marks one year since the devastating wildfires on Maui, particularly impacting Lahaina Town and the Upcountry communities of Kula and Olinda. The emotional, financial, and communal toll of the fires remains profound, and our hearts go out to the survivors and their ohana.

Through the collective efforts of Rotarians and supporters, Hawaiʻi Rotary District 5000 Foundation has played a crucial role in the healing process.  We quickly mobilized and created the Maui Fires Relief Funds, receiving overwhelming support from over 4,000 donors worldwide.  To date, we have raised $3.2 million and have funded 60 projects totaling over $1.0 million.

These projects include:

• Direct food and transportation assistance
• Vocational grants for workers who list their tools
• A scholarship fund at the University of Hawaiʻi at Maui for counseling degrees
• Specialized equipment for Hawaiʻi’s only burn unit
• Laptop computers for hundreds of children

Our focus has been on three key areas: Mental and Behavioral Health, Vocational Assistance, and the Environment. While our immediate and intermediate recovery efforts continue, we are now shifting our attention to long-term community rebuilding.

This work has been led by a dedicated group of volunteers, including the Maui Fires Advisory Committee and the Foundation’s Board of Directors. We are committed to ensuring that all funded projects align with Rotary’s areas of focus and that 100% of donor funds go directly to these efforts.

As we reflect on the past year, we are honored to be part of Maui’s recover.  Thank you for your continued service through Rotary and for your support in creating hope for the people of Maui. To learn more about our efforts, visit RotaryD5000Foundation.org/News