How to Donate Responsibly
Supporting Recovery Through Trusted Organizations
Written by a Maui Local
Jade KawanuiHow to Donate Responsibly
For those who wish to contribute further, or are unable to visit at this time, financial donations are a powerful way to help. It is important to give to established, reputable organizations that are deeply involved in the community's recovery.
When you donate to these organizations, you are contributing to real, measurable recovery efforts. You are helping to rebuild homes, provide mental health services, restore historic sites, and support the long-term healing of our community.
Trusted Organizations
🌺 Hawaiʻi Community Foundation - Maui Strong Fund
One of the primary funds for the recovery effort. This organization provides financial resources for both immediate and long-term needs, from housing to healthcare. The foundation has been a trusted steward of community resources for decades.
Key Information:
- • 100% of donations go to community needs
- • No administrative fees deducted
- • Supports immediate and long-term recovery
- • Provides housing, healthcare, and essential services
🤝 Maui United Way - Maui Fire and Disaster Relief
Focuses on providing direct financial assistance to survivors. This organization empowers survivors to purchase what they need most for their families, rather than deciding for them. This approach respects the dignity and agency of those affected.
Key Information:
- • Direct financial assistance to survivors
- • Empowers families to make their own choices
- • Deep roots in the community
- • Coordinating relief efforts since day one
🏛️ Lahaina Restoration Foundation
The organization to support if you wish to specifically contribute to the immense task of preserving and rebuilding the historic and cultural sites of Lahaina. This non-profit has been the designated steward of the town's heritage for decades.
Key Information:
- • Preserving historic and cultural sites
- • Cataloging what was lost
- • Planning for restoration
- • Investment in preserving Hawaiian history
Why These Organizations?
These organizations have been vetted, are transparent with their finances, and have deep, long-standing connections to the Maui community. They were here before the fires, actively serving our people, and they will be here for the long recovery ahead.
Your donation to these trusted organizations ensures your money reaches those who need it most and contributes to meaningful, lasting recovery efforts.
Other Ways to Help
✈️ Visit West Maui
The most direct way to help is by visiting. Every hotel stay, meal, and activity directly supports Maui families working to rebuild.
🛍️ Shop Local
Purchase from local businesses, artisans, and makers. Every transaction helps keep our economy alive during this challenging time.
📢 Spread the Word
Share positive stories about West Maui on social media. Help reshape the narrative and encourage respectful tourism.
❤️ Practice Aloha
Travel with compassion, patience, and respect. Your mindful presence is as valuable as your economic contribution.
🗺️ Complete Guide
💰 Where to Donate
- HI Community Foundation
- Maui United Way
- Lahaina Restoration Fund
💚 Remember
100% of your donation to these trusted organizations goes directly to supporting Maui families and rebuilding our community.