How to donate to Maui wildfire victims without getting scammed

August 11, 2023

By Kim Komando

I have so many listeners and readers in Hawaii. I also lived in Maui for years. It’s heart-wrenching to see lives lost, homes destroyed and the devastation. We won’t know the full extent of the loss for some time.

Scammers are ready to take advantage of people’s kindness in times like these. If you’re thinking of helping out, you need to know who to donate to.

A list of trustworthy organizations

• Maui Fire Relief Fund: Donations go directly to the Maui United Way.
• Salvation Army Hawaii: Provides resources and food for those evacuating.
• GoFundMe: GoFundMe has a list of verified Maui Wildfires Relief Fundraisers. Be wary of donating to any others.
• Maui Humane Society: If you’re nearby, animals need places to stay, or you can donate money to help feed and shelter the animals.
• Maui Food Bank: Accepting food and monetary donations to help feed people in Maui.

Hawaii friends, my prayers are with you right now. You’re my ohana.