As communities across Hawaii recover from the devastating flooding, the worst to strike the state in over 20 years, various nonprofits, mutual aid networks, and foundations have mobilized to collect donations for households, farmers, and animals impacted by the disaster. Two Kona low winter storm systems that hit just a week apart have resulted in extensive damage, as heavy rains fell on already saturated ground, leading to widespread flooding. This natural disaster has destroyed crops, damaged hundreds of homes, and affected schools and hospitals.
The financial toll from the storms is projected to exceed $1 billion. Hawaii Governor Josh Green has sought a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump to secure federal assistance for the recovery efforts. In a statement, Governor Green emphasized that the storms had impacted every county in Hawaii, straining the state's emergency response capabilities. He noted that the request for federal support is essential for helping communities recover quickly and safely.
In response to the disaster, neighbors and aid organizations are stepping up to assist displaced households by providing temporary housing, food replacements, medical care, and help with debris removal. Kuhio Lewis, CEO of the Hawaiian Council, highlighted the urgent needs facing families and stressed that the recovery process must begin immediately.
Numerous organizations are currently accepting financial contributions to aid those affected. The Lahui Foundation is raising funds for its mutual aid efforts on Oahu's North Shore, including distributing supplies and providing financial assistance to families in need. They are also coordinating volunteers to assist residents with cleaning efforts. North Shore-born musician Jack Johnson has encouraged public donations to the Lahui Foundation via an Instagram post.
The Aloha United Way has activated its Community Relief Fund to provide immediate assistance to individuals and families and support local nonprofits. Similarly, Maui United Way is providing similar help for communities on Maui and Molokai, while Hawaii Island United Way is collecting donations specifically for flood relief efforts on the Big Island.
The Hawaiian Council has initiated the Kako’o Oahu program to provide housing stability services and financial assistance, with a matching donation offer of up to $200,000. Additionally, the Hawaii Community Foundation has launched its Stronger Hawaii Fund to support state-wide recovery and resilience efforts.
Maui Rapid Response is utilizing funds to offer mutual aid to underserved areas in Maui and Molokai, particularly to those who were isolated due to the flooding. Furthermore, GoFundMe has established a hub of verified fundraisers for those affected by the flooding. Help Maui Rise also maintains a spreadsheet of vetted donation opportunities for individuals directly impacted.
Animal welfare organizations are also addressing needs. The Hawaiian Humane Society is providing pet supplies to displaced families in flooded areas and accepting monetary donations. The Maui Humane Society is focused on assisting remote communities like Hana, which encountered difficulties due to washed-out roads.
For farmers, the Hawaii Farmers Union Foundation has established the Hawaii Flood Response Fund to help restore local agriculture following estimated damages exceeding $15 million, according to Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii.
In terms of medical aid, organizations such as Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Hawaii and Hawaii H.O.M.E Project are providing mobile health services to the impacted areas on Oahu's North Shore, collaborating with groups like Direct Relief for medical supplies.
