Maui Wildfire Relief
Devastating wildfires on the island of Maui have killed more than 100 people, with many still missing, making it the deadliest natural disaster in the history of the state of Hawaii and the deadliest wildfire in the United States in the last 100 years.
In addition to the loss of life, more than 2,200 structures were damaged or destroyed, most of them homes. It is estimated 4,500 people have been displaced. The centuries-old town of Lahaina was left in ruins.
"As a community of faith, we are called to come together and provide unwavering support to those who are suffering. It is in times like these that our collective love, faith, and compassion can make a tremendous difference," said Bishop Larry Silva of Honolulu. "In our collective prayers, we ask for strength, resilience, and healing for the fire victims and their families."
Please join in praying for the people of Maui, and if you like to make a financial contribution to assist the residents, donations may be made through the Diocese of Honolulu, Catholic Charities Hawai'i, or Catholic Charities USA, which pledges that 100% of your gift will be directed to where it is needed most.
Donate here to Catholic Charities Hawai'i.
Donate here to Catholic Charities USA.
Donate here to a special fund set up by the Diocese of Honolulu, which encompasses all of Hawaii.
The Catholic church in Lahaina, Maria Lanakila Church, which dates back to 1846, is still standing, although its condition is not known. The priest and sisters who served there are safe. However, the parish school was destroyed, and five of the parish's lay employees lost their homes.