MAUI, Hawaii (KHON2) — Maui residents who lost their homes in the 2023 wildfires can now apply for funding to help rebuild what was once theirs, the County of Maui Office of Recovery said on Aug. 11.
The office opened applications for their Hoʻokumu Hou housing programs, which is supported by Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds, also known as CDBG-DR funds.
CDBG-DR funds were finalized back in June between the County of Maui and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Totaling $1.6 billion, the grant is the largest single allocation of this type of funding to a single local municipality ever.
The method for distributing the funds is outlined by an action plan written by the county with input from the Maui community during public hearings in February and March.
Applicants who meet eligibility criteria, such as their income limits and property loss during the fires, are now able to apply for one of three relief programs created by the CDBG-DR funds. The three programs include:
- The Single-Family Homeowner Reconstruction Program
- The Single-Family Homeowner Reimbursement Program
- The First-Time Homebuyer Opportunity Program
Regardless of which program residents are interested in, applicants must submit documentation that may include government ID, proof of citizenship or legal residence, income verification, assistance documentation and more.
Additionally, applicants must comply with a set of terms to keep their properties affordable and available to income-qualified buyers.
“The Hoʻokumu Hou program is here to help our families take the next step toward rebuilding and returning home,” said John Smith, an administrator at the Office of Recovery. “If you were impacted by the wildfires, I encourage you to apply today. These resources were designed for you — to bridge the gaps, ease the burden and make sure you have a clear path forward.”
Hoʻokumu Hou’s case management is overseen by Hawaiian Council, who will be working with community members on the application process.
“If in doubt, please apply,” said Hawaiian Council Associate Director Kukui Keahi. “The application is very simple, and you’ll have a great team behind you, helping you every step of the way.”
Residents have multiple ways to apply for funding programs:
- Online applications can be done on the Hoʻokumu Hou website.
- Download the Maui Office of Recovery app on the Google Play or Apple App Stores.
- Speak with a specialist in Lahaina or Kahului from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Saturdays by appointment.
- The Lahaina location can be found at 325 Keawe St., Suite B102.
- The Kahului location can be found at 53 E. Kamehameha Ave., Suite 101.
- Appointments can be made for in-person visits on the Hoʻokumu Hou website or by calling (808) 865-4007.