LAHAINA, Hawaii (KHON2) — Tis the season of giving. Multiple agencies are feeling the holiday spirit, reuniting Lahaina families with their island home.
Maui United Way, Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement are shedding light on those who have suffered a dark year.
The devastating 2023 Lahaina wildfires displaced many, with some relocating to the mainland.
Since the holiday season is a bittersweet reminder of the distance from their ohana, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines closed the bridge to bring them back home.
Coming home to Maui for the holidays is a dream come true for our family. Being surrounded by loved ones and the aloha spirit is the greatest gift we could ever ask for.
Chealsea Mailau, program recipient
Each partner played a pivotal role in ensuring that the program reflected the power of community and compassion.
Officials said Maui United Way facilitated outreach and logistics, while CNHA helped vet and connect eligible families with the opportunity. Alaska and Hawaiian then connected the families with 14 round-trip tickets.
“ʻOhana is at the heart of everything we do, and this initiative reflects our commitment to bringing people together. We are humbled and grateful for the opportunity to help these families reconnect with their loved ones during this holiday season,” said Jacob Aki of Alaska x Hawaiian.
Maui United Way said these kinds of initiatives serve as a beacon of hope and resilience. The company also encourages businesses to do the same, finding creative ways to continue supporting wildfire survivors and their families.
“Together, we can bring healing, joy, and a renewed sense of aloha to Maui,” said Jason Economou, CEO of Maui United Way.
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To continue supporting these types of initiatives, visit Maui United Way’s website.