Sunrise from Haleakala summit.
3 Ways You Can Help When You’re in Maui and from Afar
In some ways, it feels like a long time has passed since the August 8, 2023 fires that destroyed much of Lahaina and parts of Upcountry Maui. We’ve all experienced so much change since then. However, in very real and tangible ways, the recovery process is only just beginning for Maui residents, and will take years to come. This is why it’s so important to keep the aloha for Maui coming from far and wide. Here are Auntie’s recommendations for 3 ways you can still help Maui, whether you’re far away or if you can make it to Maui to help out in person.
#1. Donate, donate, donate.
There are a lot of nonprofit organizations helping Maui residents with everything from small day-to-day necessities to housing and future plans. They all need funding to keep going for the long haul of Maui’s recovery. Here are some top reputable organizations to consider.
- Aina Momona
- American Red Cross of Hawai’i
- Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
- Hawai’i Animal Rescue Foundation
- Hawai’i Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund
- Maui Food Bank
- Maui Humane Society
- Maui United Way
- Surf Ranch Cats
This is not an exhaustive list. There are many more local and larger nonprofits working to help Maui that could definitely use your help. Just be sure to research any nonprofit thoroughly before donating, so you know your donation will help those who need it.
#2. Visit Maui
Since the fires, Maui has seen a drop in tourism close to covid-era lows. Our island economy depends upon visitors in so many ways, and most of Maui is open for business. So, if you’ve been thinking of coming to Maui, please do!
Our beautiful South Side is far from the burn areas and a wonderful option for your stay. Auntie Snorkel Kihei is open 7:30am-5pm every day to help you enjoy some beach and ocean time, plus help you navigate what activities are open and when.
Also, as of November 1, all of West Maui (except for Lahaina town’s burned area) is officially welcoming visitors once again. Napili and Kapalua are wonderful areas with lots to explore and that will heartily welcome your stay. Ka’anapali is open as well, however, be mindful that thousands of displaced Lahaina residents are staying in this area and in the healing process. Give us a call at Auntie Snorkel in Lahaina Gateway Center for the latest advice: 808-298-3021.
#3. Volunteer
If you can make it to Maui, please consider using just a little of your time to help in a hands-on way. So many of our local groups need extra hands every day. Here are a few of them to consider.
- Feed My Sheep
- Hands on Maui
- Hawai’i Animal Rescue Foundation
- Hungry Heroes Hawaii
- Maui Food Bank
- Maui Humane Society
- Maui Rapid Response
- Maui United Way
- Napili Noho Community Hub
- Surf Ranch Cats
- Upcountry Strong
Again, this list is by no means a complete one, but rather intended as a starting point to inspire you to give a few hours of your time to help Maui’s residents and pets recover while you’re here. We guarantee you’ll be glad you did.
All of Maui has been affected in some way by the fires of August 8. The tips we’ve offered here are just some of the best ways you can be a part of helping Maui heal and move into the future stronger than ever. We’re all so grateful for the love you show Maui, our beloved home, and likely your home away from home. We hope to see you soon!
