Families displaced by last summer’s devastating wildfires on Maui have received a lifeline through direct cash transfers from a fund established by Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson. The People’s Fund of Maui has distributed nearly $60 million over six months to over 8,100 adults, significantly assisting in their recovery and stability.
Lana Vierra, a mother of five and grandmother of four, credits the payments from the People’s Fund with helping her family stay current on their mortgage despite the destruction of their home. She emphasized the sense of dignity and relief that comes with having direct access to financial assistance.
Experts in disaster response note the effectiveness of direct cash transfers in providing immediate relief and allowing recipients to prioritize their own needs. The success of the People’s Fund has prompted other nonprofits and government programs to incorporate direct cash assistance into their disaster response strategies.
While the cash transfers have been a significant help, the displaced families face ongoing challenges and the need for long-term support. Many are still living in hotels, grappling with mental health issues and the uncertainty of their future housing situation. The Maui Recovery Effort at the Hawai’i Community Foundation is working to address these needs with a $500 million commitment to build 3,000 housing units and provide additional support services.
Despite the ongoing challenges, displaced families like the Vierras express deep gratitude for the generosity of individuals and organizations that have supported them. The People’s Fund of Maui has been a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of direct cash assistance in times of crisis.
