Coming Together to Support Maui Wildfire Relief

The recent Maui wildfires have tested the strength and resilience of the Hawaii community. The wildfires, which began in Lahaina, West Maui, on Aug. 8, 2023, have spread across 2,170 acres, destroying over 2,000 buildings and claiming at least 115 lives in their wake. This makes them one of the worst natural disasters in Hawaii’s history and one of the nation’s deadliest wildfires in over a century. 

Among the devastation, people rallied together to help those affected, including the Rex Maughan Forever Giving Foundation, which has partnered with the Hawaii Community Foundation by donating to its Maui Strong Fund. 

With a focus on rapid response and recovery, this fund provides critical aid for Maui residents impacted by the wildfires. For over a century, the Hawaii Community Foundation has been a steadfast pillar of support for the Hawaiian community. In the aftermath of the Maui wildfires, the foundation activated the Maui Strong Fund to funnel resources directly to Maui residents in need. The flexible nature of the fund ensures that evolving needs can be effectively met.  

The funding will provide Maui residents with shelter, food, financial assistance and other services as they are identified by on-the-ground partners in Maui. Notably, the Hawaii Community Foundation will not be collecting a fee for donations to the Maui Strong Fund — 100% of the funds will be go directly toward relief efforts. 

Micah Kane, CEO and president of the Hawaii Community Foundation, emphasized the collaborative spirit driving these efforts, saying, "[We are] collaborating with Maui County Mayor Bissen, state leaders, and nonprofit organizations to assess the evolving situation and the priorities needed to support Maui residents at this time." 

In the face of disaster, humanity's innate capacity for compassion and solidarity often shines the brightest. The Rex Maughan Forever Giving Foundation's swift action demonstrates the profound impact that mobilizing support can have on disaster relief. Thanks to consistent donations both past and present, it was possible for the foundation to contribute to healing in Hawaii.  

“Our hearts go out to all those affected by this horrific natural disaster,” says Forever Giving President Gregg Maughan. “We chose to partner with the Hawaii Community Foundation because of their deep community roots and century-long commitment to betterment in Maui. This contribution signifies not only financial assistance but also a symbolic gesture of unity — a reminder that even from afar, people come together in times of need.”