MAUI, Hawaii–The Credit Union Wildfire Relief Fund, made up of a coalition of Maui’s six credit unions, has donated $153,000 to the Ho‘ōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group (Ho‘ōla LTRG) to support ongoing wildfire recovery efforts.
As the CU Daily reported here, credit unions on the island have been active in the recovery efforts from the fire that destroyed Lahaina in 2023.
The funds will directly assist families rebuilding their homes by covering insurance gaps in upcoming Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) construction projects.
The donation—made possible by Maui County Federal Credit Union, MauiFed Credit Union, Kahului Federal Credit Union, Valley Isle Community Federal Credit Union, Wailuku Federal Credit Union, and Maui Teachers Federal Credit Union—reflects the credit union community’s deep commitment to long-term recovery, according to the half-dozen CUs.
The credit unions said that as member-owned financial cooperatives rooted in service, they understand the importance of standing with their neighbors in times of crisis.
Where Funds are Going
The $153,000 contribution has already been received and will be deployed immediately to support the next 10 Mennonite Disaster Service homes, helping to cover critical material costs that fall outside insurance coverage.
“We are deeply grateful to receive this generous gift from Maui’s credit unions, a powerful coalition rooted in service to our community,” Rhonda Alexander-Monkres, executive director of Ho’ōla LTRG, said in a statement. “Their confidence in our work—and alignment in values—means so much as we continue helping survivors rebuild their lives. At Ho’ōla LTRG, we are always seeking partners and donors who share our commitment to supporting families through their unique recovery journeys.”
“As credit unions rooted in this community, we understand the real financial challenges families face after disaster strikes,” Gary Fukuroku, president & CEO of Maui County FCU, said in a statement. “Insurance doesn’t always cover the full cost of rebuilding, and many survivors are left to navigate unexpected expenses on their own. By partnering with Ho‘ōla LTRG, we’re helping bridge that gap—ensuring families in Lahaina have the critical support they need to move forward with hope and stability.”
Efforts to Date
Since the August 2023 wildfires, Ho‘ōla LTRG has led coordinated recovery efforts for survivors and communities most impacted by the disaster, with a primary focus on Lahaina and surrounding areas. Its Volunteer Rebuild Housing Program—funded in part by a $760,528 Maui Strong Fund grant—works with partners like Mennonite Disaster Service to deliver 10 to 20 rebuilt homes each year for families with no other means to rebuild.