Disaster Ministries: Hawaii Wildfires - Donate Now!
On August 8, the people of Hawaii woke to high winds from Hurricane Dora blowing across their islands. Little did anyone know that within hours those winds would turn deadly, fanning wildfires among the islands, leaving behind smoldering buildings and lost lives.
The United Church of Christ holds all who are affected in prayer. Through Wider Church Ministries, the UCC also has issued a special appeal to provide essential items and long-term support to those impacted by the fires.
The island of Maui was hardest hit, where the fires quickly consumed the historic city of Lahaina. Located on northwestern Maui, the once whaling center is home to 13,000 people and attracts 2 million tourists yearly. What is left now is more than 2,170 charred acres and the ruins of more than 2,200 homes, businesses, schools, and churches. If you have seen any of the news footage, you will agree with me that the destruction is unbelievable and heartbreaking.
Already, local congregations are providing resources including clothing, food, and shelter. The Hawaii Conference is active, and the United Church of Christ’s Global H.O.P.E. team is working with Hawaii Conference Disaster Coordinator Danny Tengan, in consultation with Hawaii Conference Minister Rev. Dr. David Popham and other leaders, to assess the situation and walk alongside them.
You can help as well. Your donation to the Hawaii wildfires appeal helps the United Church of Christ increase support to immediate relief efforts and enables us to be present for the journey ahead, assuring long-term aid for persons who require assistance with their recovery.
Supporting communities impacted by health, ecological, environmental, and economic disasters, the UCC Disaster Ministries team and its partners stand poised to help people rebuild their lives. Your support allows UCC Disaster Ministries to bridge the gaps between the assistance offered by first-time responders and community revitalization.
Our volunteer network includes UCC congregations, conferences, and Conference Disaster Coordinators. UCC Disaster Ministries seeks to serve the most vulnerable population while focusing on disaster preparedness, identifying and meeting unmet needs, and providing spiritual and emotional support.
Internationally, we maintain direct relationships and partnerships with organizations and faith communities able to respond to emergency and long-term needs appropriately and effectively.
With your support, we will continue this important work. If you have questions or need further information, please contact us at giving@ucc.org or 1-800-846-6822. Thank you for your support.