Apr. 28, 2021
Honolulu – Aloha United Way announced today that several grants have been distributed to local non-profit organizations from the Aloha United Way Emergency Flood Relief Fund. The fund was created to provide statewide food, housing, shelter, disaster, and crisis services for those impacted by flooding and persistent storms on O‘ahu, Maui and Kaua‘i this spring. The fund also supports AUW’s 211 Helpline, which provides statewide information and referrals to emergency services and other urgent health and human service needs.
Agencies receiving funds to support ongoing flood relief efforts are:
• Alea Bridge
• Aloha Harvest
• American Red Cross, Pacific Region
• Habilitat
“We want to say mahalo to each and every contributor to this relief effort,” said Red Cross Regional CEO, Diane Peters-Nguyen. “This funding is providing for flooding victims’ ongoing needs, and is helping them rebuild their lives.” To respond to the flood, the Red Cross mobilized staff and volunteers to assist 150 people on Maui and O‘ahu who were affected. They are also providing over 300 clean-up and comfort kits and financial assistance to help those in need. American Red Cross check presentation photo.
“One of our clients watched all of his possessions wash away in the flash flooding. There was nothing he could do,” said Alea Bridge Executive Director Nicky Winter. “In the immediate aftermath, we provided hygiene items, clothes, food, snacks, water, towels, socks, and PPE. Now we have shifted to helping him regain his documentation and replace what he lost.” Alea Bridge check presentation photo.
The cornerstone funder and co-creator for the Aloha United Way Emergency Flood Relief Fund, Hawthorne Cat, is the exclusive Cat® construction and power equipment dealer in the Hawaiian Islands, the Pacific Region, and San Diego. Additional gifts from the public have supported the fund through the AUW website at AUW.org/emergencyfloodrelief
“The agencies receiving support are serving affected communities across the state,” said Lisa Kimura, Vice President of Community Impact at Aloha United Way. “They responded quickly during a crisis situation; allocating food distributions, cleanup efforts, case management, and other critical support services to make the most impact on multiple islands.”
About Aloha United Way
Founded in 1919, Aloha United Way brings resources, organizations, and businesses together to advance the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our community. A member of United Way Worldwide, AUW supports non-profits and communities on O‘ahu.
CONTACT:
Cat Howland, VP Marketing & Communications, AUW
cat@auw.org (808) 260-5001