LAHAINA, Hawaii (KHON2) — It has been two years since the tragic wildfires swept through Lahaina, Maui.
A new report from the University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization (UHERO) has shed light on the progress that has been made, including struggles that many residents still face.
The report, titled “Progress and Vulnerability Two Years After the Wildfires,” came out on Aug. 5 and is based on monthly survey responses, which have been collected over the past year.
The UHERO survey offers unique perspectives into how people are rebuilding their lives, including those who lived, worked or owned businesses in areas impacted at the time.
Some key findings within this report include a steady increase in permanent housing, a decrease in median rent for smaller units and the positive impact of rental assistance.
On the other hand, the report also reveals adversity that still affects many families. Full-time employment levels remain lower than they were before the disaster, and about 60% of households are still earning less income than they did prior to the fires.
The number of households living in poverty has doubled, now affecting close to one in four families living below the poverty line. Rental costs continue to be especially high for those who do not receive full rental subsidies, particularly for larger homes.
UHERO Research Economist, Daniela Bond-Smith, said the data “Show two realities unfolding side by side”.
“Some households are finding new footing, moving into stable housing, returning to work, and regaining stability,” Bond-Smith explained. “But others are still living with deep uncertainty, especially those with limited support and those who were already marginalized before the fires.”
Fewer people are getting assistance now than a year ago. Some families may be more stable, but others may be losing needed support. Reports of unmet needs in food, housing, and aid have declined, though experts say many gaps still remain.
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As Maui prepares to mark the second anniversary of the 2023 wildfires, this is a powerful reminder that while progress is being made, recovery is far from complete. For many families, the struggle to rebuild is still a daily obstacle.