Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson have launched the ‘People’s Fund of Maui’ in response to the devastating wildfires which ripped through the island last month.
With the guidance and the blessing of community elders, leaders and residents, including Hawaiian actor Jason Momoa, the media icon and Hollywood star created the fund to provide immediate and ongoing cash assistance to thousands of people who’ve been displaced or otherwise impacted by the natural disaster, so they can decide how to best help themselves.
Oprah and Dwayne have kicked it all off with a combined donation of US$10 million.
“I have been meeting with people throughout the community that were impacted bu the fires over the last few weeks, asking what they most needed and how I could be of service,” Oprah shares in a release. You might remember she recently stopped by evacuation shelters and dropped off toiletries, pillows and other supplies requested by locals.
“The main thing I’ve been hearing is their concern about how to move forward under the immense financial burden. The community has come together in so many wonderful ways, and my intention is to support those impacted as they determine what rebuilding looks like for them.”
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Every adult resident (aged 18 and over) who lives in the affected area and was displaced by the wildfires in Lahaina and Kula is eligible to receive US$1,200 per month to help them through this period of recovery.
“As people around the world watched the catastrophic loss and devastation caused by the Maui wildfires, they also witnessed the great spirit and resilience of our Polynesian culture and the tremendous strength of the people of Maui. Even in the most difficult of times, the people of Maui come together, and we rise – that’s what makes us stronger,” Dwayne says.
“We are beyond grateful to be working alongside esteemed community leaders of Maui to launch the People’s Fund of Maui. These leaders are offering their guidance to ensure our fund can put money directly in the hands of those individuals most affected. To all who have already offered your help, thank you for your support and for those wanting to help now, your prayers and resources are a welcome assistance for those displaced within the Maui community. I also want to offer my profound gratitude to all the first responders, local organisations and every individual who has worked tirelessly on the ground responding to this crisis.”
Who was consulted in the establishment of the People’s Fund of Maui?
As per the release, the following people were consulted: Hōkūlani Holt-Padilla, Keali’i Reichel, Archie Kalepa, Ekolu Lindsey, Kimo Falconer, Tiare Lawrence, Kaimana Brummel, Kaleikoa Ka’eo, Brian Keaulana, Kaimi Kaneholani, Henohea Kāne, Paele Kiakona, Ed Suwanjindar, Shep Gordon and Jason Momoa.
How can I apply for assistance from the People’s Fund of Maui?
If you are a Maui homeowner or renter (18 or older) whose primary residence was lost or became uninhabitable in the Lahaina and Kula fires, you can apply here.
How can I contribute to the People’s Fund of Maui?
To learn more about how to donate to the People’s Fund of Maui, visit PeoplesFundMaui.org.
(Feature Image Credit: via @oprahdaily/Instagram)
