Earlier this week, horrible fires fueled by a dry summer and strong winds from Hurricane Dora overtook the island paradise of Maui, Hawaii. The historic town of Lahaina has been left to rubble. The fires have already claimed the lives of more than 50 people and have become the state's deadliest natural disaster since 1960. Its also the deadliest U.S. wildfire since the 2018 Camp Fire which devastated the community of Paradise, California. Hawaiian Governor, Josh Green, estimates it will take billions of dollars to rebuild all of the communities affected and there is an urgent need to house thousands of people who have lost their homes to the blaze.
Rotarians are People of Action and the Rotary members of Hawaii (District 5000) have created a fund to help with the relief and rebuilding effort. We welcome members and clubs who are interested in supporting the recovery effort to donate there.
This relief fund aims to provide immediate assistance and long-term recovery support to the people of Maui, as they navigate the path to rebuilding their lives and communities. Individuals, businesses, and organizations are invited to contribute to the Maui Fires Relief Fund to provide immediate relief and support for the long-term recovery of Maui's communities.
53 Rotary clubs in Rotary District 5000 have already taken the lead by collecting donations at their club meetings and collecting needed supplies at collection points.
To donate or learn more about the Maui Fires Relief Fund, please visit rotaryd5000.org. Your support will play a vital role in helping Maui recover and rebuild stronger than ever.
Below is a letter from Rotary District 5000 Governor, Mark Merriam:
August 9, 2023
Aloha:
Today has been a tragic day for our families and friends on the Island of Maui. The fires across the island have changed lives forever. Truly devastating. Our sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted.
Rotary members are people of action, and we can take immediate action. As we come together to recover and rebuild, we need to support each other. We need to Create Hope for Maui.
Through our Hawai’i Rotary District 5000 Foundation, a relief fund has been established. Foundation President Dave Hamil and Treasurer Sharon Amano will handle all donations.
A committee will be organized shortly to find the greatest needs for distribution of monies. A single fund will be the most helpful over time to provide the most significant benefits.
Please consider donating to this special fund.
Please also widely share this opportunity to help.
Stay safe, take care and mahalo for creating hope.
Stay safe, take care and mahalo for creating hope.
Mark Merriam, District Governor
Rotary District 5000, Hawaii, USA
Rotary District 5000, Hawaii, USA
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