Recent devastating fires in Hawai’i, sweeping through Maui and the Big Island, have now been recorded as one of the deadliest wildfire incidents in U.S. history. As response efforts are underway, local organizations and residents are rallying to support those displaced, including families, farmers, and hospitality workers.

The fires have destroyed numerous homes, leaving thousands of Hawaiian residents homeless. The current death toll stands at 99, with Hawai’i Governor Josh Green cautioning that this number is likely to rise as search operations continue. The historic town of Lahaina on Maui, a vital hub for Native Hawaiian communities, has been particularly hard-hit by the fires.

Governor Green noted that the state was experiencing unusually dry conditions, exacerbated by high winds brought by nearby Hurricane Dora, which fueled the rapid spread of the flames.

In response to this crisis, various nonprofits are urgently mobilizing aid for the affected communities. World Central Kitchen (WCK) is collaborating with local chefs, including Lee Anne Wong, Executive Chef of Papa’aina, to prepare fresh meals for those in need. Wong highlights the strong community spirit in Hawai’i, with local communities uniting in support.

Other organizations, such as the Hawaii Ag & Culinary Alliance and Hawaii Agricultural Foundation, are focusing on relief efforts for food systems workers, ranging from farmers to bartenders, aiming to assist those displaced by the fires and help food producers recover.

Here are nine organizations actively working to support Hawaiian communities in the wake of the wildfires:

1. Hawaii Ag & Culinary Alliance, in partnership with the Hawaii Agricultural Foundation, is raising funds to aid farmers, ranchers, and hospitality workers. Donations can be designated to specific businesses or to the broader industry.
2. Hawai’i Community Foundation has launched the Maui Strong Fund, providing food, shelter, and financial assistance through local nonprofits. The fund has already amassed US$1 Million for fire relief.
3. Hawai’i Restaurant Association is seeking donations for immediate needs like food, water, and medical supplies, as well as long-term assistance in Maui.
4. Hawai’i People’s Fund has initiated the Maui Aloha: The Peopleʻs Response, offering direct relief to those affected on Maui. They also provide Urgent Action Grants to organizations assisting the community.
5. Maui Food Bank, the primary hunger relief organization in Maui County, is accepting both food and monetary donations, converting every dollar into four meals.
6. Maui Rapid Response, a collective disaster response group, is coordinating donations and volunteer efforts in the area, including housing and cleanup assistance.
7. Nā Kama Kai, started by a local pro-surfer, is focusing on collecting supplies for families impacted by the fires.
8. The Olowalu Farm, part of Regenerative Education Centers, is operating an off-grid shelter for displaced residents and has launched a fundraising effort to support their fire response initiatives.
9. World Central Kitchen, under Chef Jose Andres, has initiated Chefs for Hawai’i, providing thousands of meals to first responders and affected families. They are collaborating with local organizations Common Ground Collective and Chef Hui to maximize their outreach.

The Hawaiian community, known for its resilience and unity, is coming together in these challenging times, demonstrating remarkable solidarity and commitment to aiding those affected by the wildfires.