According to CBS News, Maui wildfires have damaged at least 2,200 buildings and about 86% of the island’s residential areas. According to the University of Hawaii’s Pacific Disaster Center, the total cost of rebuilding is estimated at $5.52 billion.
To help residents who are in immediate need, Dwayne Johnson and Oprah Winfrey — both Maui residents themselves — have launched a joint recovery fund. To help kickstart the fund, the duo donated $10 million.
In a joint video on Instagram, the pair announced their Maui recovery fund. The money donated will go to residents in need right now, explained Winfrey.
“Every adult resident who lives in the affected area and was displaced by the wildfires in Lahaina and Kula is eligible to receive $1,200 per month to help them through this period of recovery. All you have to do is go to PeoplesFundofMaui.org to apply,” the post caption read.
“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,” said Johnson.
The Maui wildfire was the deadliest wildfire in modern American history, with a death toll reaching 115, according to Maui police.
“We are beyond grateful to be working alongside esteemed community leaders of Maui to launch the People’s Fund of Maui,” The Rock continued. “These leaders are offering their guidance to ensure our fund can put money directly in the hands of those individuals most affected.”
To donate visit the People’s Fund of Maui.
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Credit: NYT