Hawai'i Rotary
District 5000 Foundation

Rotary International District 5000

serving with aloha

40%

Promoting Peace

33%

Economic Development

10%

Disease Prevention

9%

Education & Literacy

8%

Maternal & Child Health

Maui Fires Relief Fund

Maui Fires Relief Fund

Joint Statement from District 5000 Immediate Past District Governor, Mark Merriam and District 5000 Foundation President, Dave Hamil

Lahaina, Hawaii, 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

Mahalo,

Mark Merriam

Immediate Past District Governor

Rotary District 5000

David Hamil

President

Rotary District 5000 Foundation

***

Lahaina, Hawaii, August 9, 2023 – In the aftermath of the recent challenges faced by our community on Maui, Hawai’i Rotary District 5000, known for its commitment to service and community support, launched the Maui Fires Relief Fund through the Hawai’i Rotary District 5000 Foundation. This relief fund aims to provide immediate and intermediate assistance and long-term recovery support to the people of Maui, as they navigate the path to rebuilding their lives and communities.

As people of action, Rotary District 5000 recognizes the importance of coming together during times of crisis. The Maui Fires Relief Fund is an embodiment of this spirit, symbolizing the collective strength and resilience of our community. The fund is designed to address urgent needs and provide sustainable solutions to assist those affected by the recent events.

The Rotary District 5000 Foundation has established a committee that will work diligently to identify the most critical needs and allocate resources effectively. By centralizing the relief efforts into a single fund, the goal is to provide comprehensive and impactful assistance over an extended period.

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.

District Governor Mark Merriam emphasizes, “As we face the challenges together, the Rotary District 5000 remains committed to creating hope and facilitating support for our neighbors on Maui. Your donations, no matter the size, will make a difference in rebuilding lives and providing a brighter future.”

Your support will play a vital role in helping Maui recover and rebuild stronger than ever.

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