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Disaster Relief

Maui wildfires: How to help faith leaders, groups provide relief

The wildfires that swept across Maui have turned one of the nation’s most celebrated island vistas into an ashen moonscape, killing dozens of people. Officials warn that the death toll could rise by scores as searches continue, reports The Associated Press.

Amid the tragic news, faith leaders and groups near and far are focused on providing help and spiritual hope to those who have lost homes, livelihoods, and most importantly—loved ones.

Here’s a look at a few of their efforts:

Pope Francis acknowledged the tragedy during his Sunday address to people gathered at the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Square, saying that he “desires to assure my prayers for the victims of the fires that devastated the island of Maui.”

The Church of Latter-day Saints in Maui said five of its members died in the fires, including four from the same family. In the fire’s aftermath, the church has transformed two meeting houses into shelters.

Convoy of Hope’s team is on the ground, working with partners to respond to immediate needs by distributing food, water, hygiene kits and other essential supplies.

The Chabad of Maui—which was under evacuation orders—was spared and is now sheltering evacuees, said Rabbi Mendy Krasnjansky. As the fire raged, some of the faithful stood ready to move the temple’s holy scrolls to safer grounds.

The Episcopal Church’s Diocese of Hawaiʻi’s mobile homeless assistance ministry is providing direct assistance on the island of Maui to residents who’ve lost their homes. Volunteers from A Cup of Cold Water, the diocese’s Maui-based community outreach program, have been driving a van around the island to distribute toiletries, food and pet food, bottled water, clothing and other necessities.

The Salvation Army is bringing food, shelter, hygiene items and emotional and spiritual care to survivors. They are providing thousands of meals to individuals and families at the Maui County Pukalani Shelter.

Samaritan’s Purse deployed North American Ministries assessment teams to determine relief and support with debris clearance and sifting. Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains are also on the island to provide emotional support and spiritual comfort to residents suffering in the wake of so much loss.

The Adventist Church Hawaii Conference have have put a team together to provide food and necessities. If you would like to help the Hawaii Conference respond to this disaster, please donate to the Maui Fire Relief Fund online under the heading ‘Local Offerings’.

Catholic Charities of Hawaii is establishing shelters and providing food relief. However, there is an emphasized need for cash donations.

Now begins the long recovery as survivors mourn the dead, search teams look for more victims in the charred debris, and families try to begin anew. But faith leaders are there in their midst, as a beacon of hope and help for those in need.

Author
Desair Shaw

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