Maui Wildfire Update – September 18 as of 12 p.m.
Aloha,
Here are the latest Maui wildfire news, updates, and resources you need to know.
The latest challenges in Maui’s recovery include identifying the casualties and missing people, finding housing for displaced residents, and reopening tourism.
- On Friday, authorities adjusted the number of deaths from the Maui wildfire down to 97 after previously reporting 115 people died in the fire. The number of those who are missing also fell from 41 to 31.
- Maui Economic Opportunity urgently needs available rental units for six months for individuals and families displaced by the wildfires. The Maui Fires Relief Transitional Housing Program has suspended taking new applications with more applications in hand than can be funded.
- Thousands of people have signed an online petition that calls for an extension of the tourism suspension in West Maui, saying it’s too soon to welcome visitors back.
Donations to nonprofits continue as funds are dispersed to impacted residents.
- Over $200 million has been raised by five of the top sources of private donations and their affiliates for Maui wildfire victims.
- Maui United Way has opened the nonprofit grant application process for Phase 2 of its Maui Fire Disaster Relief program.
- People’s Fund of Maui will begin distributing $1,200 monthly payments to displaced residents this coming week. The deadline to apply is Sept. 22.
- According to Aloha United Way, the top requests its 211 Helpline is fielding include assistance obtaining disaster-related cash grants, post-disaster housing assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
- Hawaii Community Lending is on track to meet its $6.5 million goal for the Kanaka Anti-Displacement Fund by the end of next week.
In good news from Lahaina and how you can help with Maui’s recovery...
- The Lahaina Banyan Tree is sprouting new leaves. Arborists volunteering their time and expertise to save the 150-year-old tree indicate these are positive signs for its long-term recovery.
- Aaron “Moose” Reichert, the owner of Krank Cycles, is giving away 400 bicycles to displaced Maui families with the help of Schwinn and Mongoose Bicycles.
- Maui’s Runners Paradise is holding a charity run/walk event for Lahaina fire victims.
Mahalo nui loa,
Your BG Team