The Ohana Restoration Grant – supporting the Maui Fire Department (MFD) Families
In the face of raging wildfires, Maui’s bravest stood in the frontline, selflessly battling the flames to protect our community. Tragically, while they were saving lives and properties, they lost their own homes to the fire. Today, Boots on the Ground Maui is launching “The Ohana Restoration Grant – supporting the Maui Fire Department (MFD) Families,” a fundraising campaign dedicated to these courageous firefighters and their families. As they’ve been there for us, it’s now our turn to stand with them, turning this heartbreaking loss into a journey of recovery and rebuilding. Join us as we rally support for our heroes in their time of need.
In the heart of our beloved Maui, fifteen heroic families, with 55 people including 24 kids, and one pregnant wife from multiple stations have faced unimaginable adversity. While they were tirelessly working to extinguish the fire and save our island, their homes fell victim to the raging flames.
Over the past few weeks, these brave firefighters have not only been dealing with the personal devastation of losing their homes, but they’ve also continued to serve our community in the recovery efforts. They’ve been balancing the emotional turmoil of personal loss while selflessly prioritizing the safety and well-being of others.
Each family has a unique story to tell, from Dane “Kea” Rogers who has a newborn baby, to Chad Sambrano, a veteran firefighter close to retirement. Their resilience in the face of adversity is nothing short of awe-inspiring. While they have lost much, these families remain steadfast in their duty, embodying the true spirit of ‘ohana. Now, it’s time for us to step up and return their acts of bravery with our support. Through our fundraising efforts, we aim to ease their burden and help them rebuild their lives. Stand with us as we stand with them, because no hero should stand alone.
Announcing the Boots on the Ground Maui “The Ohana Restoration Grant”
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our fundraising initiative, “The Ohana Restoration Grant.” Our goal is to raise a total of $75,000, with each of the fifteen affected families receiving a grant of $5,000.
These funds will provide much-needed support as they navigate through this challenging time. Whether it’s used for temporary housing, rebuilding efforts, or simply to cover daily living expenses during this difficult period, these grants offer a helping hand to our brave firefighters and their families.
Our deadline for raising these funds is the 9/11 ceremony at the Kahului Fire Station. It’s a poignant time to remember the sacrifices made by firefighters everywhere and to give back to those in our local community who’ve given so much.
But we cannot do this alone. We need your help. Every donation, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to our goal. But we’re also asking you to take it one step further – share this cause with your network of friends, family, and coworkers. Use your voice to amplify our message and rally more support for these brave souls.
Remember, when we stand together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those who put their lives on the line for us every day. Let’s show them that their bravery does not go unnoticed and that their community stands with them.
Donate today to the “Ohana Restoration Grant” Stand with us as we stand with them, because no hero should stand alone.
Aloha,
I’m a resident from the upper Lahainaluna area. My home did not get burned. As much as I want to stay home, I can’t because of the poor air quality surrounding us. We have temporary housing elsewhere until the air quality improves.
I met Kim McLaughlin while working at the front desk today. She asked how I felt about the situation and I told her that it’s so difficult because my job had to cut my hours and not having tourist does that for us. At this moment we can’t have them yet. It’s time for grieving and healing. I want Lahaina to come back stronger. Wifi has been an issue as well especially I signed up my kids for distance learning. It would be more easier if we had accessible wifi at the hotel. I chose to wait until their school opens back again rather than enrolling them elsewhere. Every parent is different on what they want for their kids. I just feel bad they can’t play with their friends, they can’t go to school, they can’t watch tv or stream on the internet.
I appreciate Kim for helping other people through the organization. And I know she can help more. By listening to her made me feel good that there are people that really want to help. #Lahainastrong
I have been trying to find a place for someone who needs a place. Red Cross will not help.
Aloha Greg,
Thank you for your message, please have them call me 808-344-4714.
-Kim