Officials Recommend Donations Of Cash To Reputable Nonprofit Organizations Active In Hawai‘i
 |
 REISTERSTOWN, MD (August 16, 2023) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management expresses its deepest condolences to the residents of Maui and Hawai‘i counties affected by the recent devastating wildfires. In the spirit of solidarity and support, the Department is extending its assistance for the wildfire relief efforts and sharing valuable tips with Maryland residents on how they can help.
“The people of Maryland stand in solidarity with our fellow Americans in Maui during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to those affected by the horrific wildfires,” said Governor Wes Moore. “We commend the dedication and bravery of all responders and volunteers working tirelessly to aid in the recovery. We are united in our efforts to provide support and comfort to those in need.”
Maryland Task Force 1 (MDTF1), a specialized urban search and rescue (USAR) team, has received an activation order to deploy a Type 1 USAR team to Maui. Comprising 70 rescuers and 10 support personnel, the team is scheduled to depart on the earliest available flight on August 16. Maryland Task Force 1’s dedicated personnel will be working in conjunction with other deployed teams, including two K9 rescue teams.
Some Maryland Task Force 1 personnel have been on the ground since Monday, assisting in search and rescue efforts under challenging conditions due to elevated temperatures. Maryland Task Force 1’s commitment to aiding disaster-stricken communities remains steadfast, with daily updates provided to ensure transparency and effective coordination.
“The flames that have ravaged Maui have left a mark on the hearts of its residents and survivors as well as the beautiful landscape. We share in their pain and are committed to offering our assistance in any way possible,” said Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland.
In light of the outpouring of support, the Department recommends that Maryland residents consider the following tips to maximize relief efforts, in accordance with requests from Hawai’i: |
- Cash Donations: Reputable nonprofit organizations active in Hawai‘i recommend cash donations, which can be used to procure specific goods and services needed for relief.
- Avoid Physical Donations: The volume of donated goods has overwhelmed some groups. Cash donations can be more efficiently directed to where they are needed most.
- Respect Access Restrictions: Individuals are urged not to “self-deploy” to the disaster-impacted areas. Authorities are managing access to ensure safety and protection of culturally important items.
Beware of Scammers: Stay vigilant against scams. Protect your donations and refer to official resources for information on how to avoid fraud.
The Hawai’i government is working with the following organizations and requesting donations:
Hawai‘i Community Foundation – Maui Strong Fund: hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strong
Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement – Kāko‘o Maui Fundraiser: hawaiiancouncil.org/maui
Maui United Way – Maui Fire Disaster Relief: mauiunitedway.org/disasterrelief
Maryland remains committed to supporting recovery efforts in Maui and will continue to collaborate with local and national partners to ensure the effective allocation of resources.
###
CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872
|
