In light of the recent tragedy that struck Maui, our hearts go out to the affected communities as they embark on the challenging journey of rebuilding and healing. We understand that the path to recovery is long, and resources are needed not only now but also in the future. As we stand together in solidarity, we are committed to supporting the brighter future of Maui’s keiki.
At InspiredPlay Hawaii, we believe in nurturing the well-being of our youth and holding space for hope, healing, and comfort during these difficult times. To assist families and caregivers in providing support for children through this transition, we have gathered a comprehensive list of resources. All of the resources will be housed on this page so that you can have easy access.
Resources for Children’s Emotional Well-Being
Red Cross: Helping Children Cope with Disaster
This booklet offers parents, caregivers, and other adults suggestions on how to help children cope with the effects of disaster, as well as how to be prepared before a disaster strikes.
CDC: Helping Your Child Cope with a Disaster
Understand how to prevent and ease emotional stress before, during, and after a disaster.
Save the Children: 10 Tips for Helping Children Cope with Disaster
Advice to help parents, teachers, and caregivers help children manage stress after a disaster.
Charities We Support
We understand the importance of responsible and impactful support, especially in times of crisis like the recent fires in Maui. We have taken great care to identify and collaborate with charities and organizations that are dedicated to utilizing their resources wisely and effectively. These partners are actively working on the ground, ensuring that the support reaches the communities in need swiftly and efficiently. By aligning ourselves with these responsible charities, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by the fires, helping them rebuild, recover, and find hope once more.
Hawaii State Teachers Association – Donate to teachers affected by wildfires.
Nā Keiki O Emalia – Providing peer grief support for children, teens, and their families to help after the death of someone important to them.
Maui Community Support
The Boys & Girls Club Maui (BGCM) lost its Lahaina clubhouse and van in the fire—this location served over 200 members. The organization has pivoted its work to provide mobile services in response to the displacement of residents from Lahaina and is dedicating staff to ensure programs are available to children outside of school time. The mobile outreach services include youth activities and programs in public spaces and at approved school locations. These mobile services will also include resource distribution including educational and school supplies and daily healthy snacks and drinks; one established site is already serving 40 youth. The organization anticipates a current and increased need for these services to support families as they exit the shelters for housing placement in different parts of the island.
Imua Family Service’s (IFS) is working to address the immediate needs of children and families directly affected by the Maui wildfires. The agency will use grant funding to support mobile therapeutic/direct intervention and crisis services, pop-up respite centers for children and families, mental health and well-being counseling, crisis intervention counseling, resource support systems, health insurance onboarding support and social services education (i.e. FEMA, SNAP, etc.), professional training and support and supplies and materials.
Maui Economic Opportunity Inc. is providing support to individuals and families affected by the Maui fires by securing transitional housing for 6 to 12 months. It will pay rental deposits and provide rental assistance until the individual or family stabilizes. MEO will also assist with job searches and providing essentials not provided through other relief organizations. It is also using its existing transportation network to provide transportation for those in need.
How You Can Support
Aide for Lahina Families by Lahina Families – An Instagram account dedicated to community support for Lahina families, you can donate to help families in need.
Contact InspiredPlay if you have any additional resources you’d like to share with the community.