Mō’ili’ili Hongwanji Mission has donated $20,000 to the Honpa Hongwanji Maui Wildfire Disaster Relief Fund.

“We support the Hawaii Kyodan’s establishment of a fund to provide relief to those on Maui who have suffered unimaginable loss,” said Mōʻiliʻili Hongwanji Mission President, Joanne Kealoha. “We hope our temple’s contribution—and those from our members—will show Hongwanj members on Maui that they are not alone.”

The Honpa Hongwanji Maui wildfire Disaster Relief Fund was established on August 10, 2023. All donations to this fund will go to support Lahaina Hongwanji and relief efforts on Maui, including addressing the immediate and short-term needs of temple families displaced by the fires and supporting the greater community as it rebuilds.

We have been watching in disbelief the tremendous destruction caused by the recent wildfires on Maui. The loss of life, livelihood, and property has been devastating. Lahaina Hongwanji and its Sangha were directly affected by the fires. The temple, columbarium, classroom building, and minister’s residence were completely destroyed in the horrific fires that devastated historic Lahaina town. Many temple members were forced to evacuate, and many homes were burnt to the ground. Our hearts go out to all who have been impacted by this disaster. As residents and our fellow Sangha members begin the process of rebuilding and healing, Hawaii Kyodan is committed to supporting relief efforts on Maui.

In the spirit of compassionate action, we have established the MAUI WILDFIRE DISASTER RELIEF FUND.

Excerpt of August 10th, 2023 letter announcing the establishment of the Honpa Hongwanji Maui wildfire Disaster Relief Fund by Rev. Toshiyuki Umitani, Bishop of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii; Rev. Blayne Higa, Committee of Social Concerns, and Dr. Warren Tamamoto, President of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii.

See dedicated post for the full announcement of the establishment of the Honpa Hongwanji Maui Wildfire Disaster Relief Fund and options for donating.