Live Updates
Since the 2023 wildfires, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) Hawaii Pacific, has remained on the ground, committed to long-term recovery for this community.
Now, Hawai‘i is facing new challenges from recent Kona storms, bringing heavy rain, flash flooding, strong winds, and power outages across multiple islands. These conditions have impacted already vulnerable communities, damaging homes, disrupting access to essential services, and creating new urgent needs.
In response, we are actively coordinating with local government and partner organizations, both here on Maui and as we expand support statewide, to provide relief where it’s needed most.
Recovery is ongoing. The need is real. And we’re not going anywhere.
Donations help us provide direct cash assistance to families, giving them the flexibility to meet their most urgent needs.
Your support makes this work possible.
👉 Visit the link in our bio to help us continue serving Hawai‘i communities.
Since the 2023 wildfires, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) Hawaii Pacific, has remained on the ground, committed to long-term recovery for this community.
Now, Hawai‘i is facing new challenges from recent Kona storms, bringing heavy rain, flash flooding, strong winds, and power outages across multiple islands. These conditions have impacted already vulnerable communities, damaging homes, disrupting access to essential services, and creating new urgent needs.
In response, we are actively coordinating with local government and partner organizations, both here on Maui and as we expand support statewide, to provide relief where it’s needed most.
Recovery is ongoing. The need is real. And we’re not going anywhere.
Donations help us provide direct cash assistance to families, giving them the flexibility to meet their most urgent needs.
Your support makes this work possible.
👉 Visit the link in our bio to help us continue serving Hawai‘i communities.
GEM Hawaii Pacific is standing by and assessing damage caused by the ongoing catastrophic flooding in Maui County. Rains are forecast to continue throughout the weekend. GEM will be identifying immediate needs.
Follow instructions from @countyofmaui and @maui_ema officials and stay informed. Flood evacuations need only to move to higher ground in your area; moving short distances to nearby shelters or nearby higher ground out of flood zones will prevent being stuck on fragile or crowded roadways. To learn more, and how you can help visit the link in our bio, or at https://give.gem.org/campaign/781951/donate. Or visit GEM Official website at www.GEM.org #hawaii #maui #flood #flooding
GEM Hawaii Pacific is standing by and assessing damage caused by the ongoing catastrophic flooding in Maui County. Rains are forecast to continue throughout the weekend. GEM will be identifying immediate needs.
Follow instructions from @countyofmaui and @maui_ema officials and stay informed. Flood evacuations need only to move to higher ground in your area; moving short distances to nearby shelters or nearby higher ground out of flood zones will prevent being stuck on fragile or crowded roadways. To learn more, and how you can help visit the link in our bio, or at https://give.gem.org/campaign/781951/donate. Or visit GEM Official website at www.GEM.org #hawaii #maui #flood #flooding
Repost via @maui_ema Maui Emergency Management Agency Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett urges the community — especially residents in flood-prone areas — to prepare for a second kona storm. Download the Genasys app for evacuation advisories and road information. Visit Mauicounty.gov/mema @countyofmaui
Repost via @maui_ema Maui Emergency Management Agency Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett urges the community — especially residents in flood-prone areas — to prepare for a second kona storm. Download the Genasys app for evacuation advisories and road information. Visit Mauicounty.gov/mema @countyofmaui
Repost via @countyofmaui @maui_ema County of Maui officials are urging residents to prepare for a second kona low storm that is expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall to Maui County - less than a week after a powerful, prolonged kona storm caused widespread flooding and strong wind.
Meanwhile, County departments are taking steps to prepare while responding to existing damages.
The new kona storm will not be as strong as last week’s storm, according to National Weather Service (NWS).
However, with the ground already saturated from recent flooding, the threat increases for potential flash flooding and landslides. A NWS flood watch goes into effect at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 19, until 6 p.m. Sunday, March 22, 2026, for Maui, Moloka’i, O’ahu and Hawai’i island.
Several rounds of moderate to heavy rainfall are anticipated, according to NWS, and the heaviest rain is expected Friday night through Saturday.
Maui received the highest rainfall totals in the state from the recent kona storm, and wind speeds were secon highest in the state, according to NWS data. Flooding and wind severely damaged portions of South Maui, ‘lao, Upper Kula, East Maui and Lahaina.
“We know this has been an incredibly difficult time for so many in our community, and the recent kona storm brought another overwhelming layer of loss and disruption. County crews are working around the clock to respond, and please know you are not alone as we get through this together, one step at a time. As we approach this lesser kona storm, we encourage you to take extra steps to prepare your loved ones and your homes, especially because we are still responding to impacts from the recent kona storm.”
Repost via @countyofmaui @maui_ema County of Maui officials are urging residents to prepare for a second kona low storm that is expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall to Maui County - less than a week after a powerful, prolonged kona storm caused widespread flooding and strong wind.
Meanwhile, County departments are taking steps to prepare while responding to existing damages.
The new kona storm will not be as strong as last week’s storm, according to National Weather Service (NWS).
However, with the ground already saturated from recent flooding, the threat increases for potential flash flooding and landslides. A NWS flood watch goes into effect at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 19, until 6 p.m. Sunday, March 22, 2026, for Maui, Moloka’i, O’ahu and Hawai’i island.
Several rounds of moderate to heavy rainfall are anticipated, according to NWS, and the heaviest rain is expected Friday night through Saturday.
Maui received the highest rainfall totals in the state from the recent kona storm, and wind speeds were secon highest in the state, according to NWS data. Flooding and wind severely damaged portions of South Maui, ‘lao, Upper Kula, East Maui and Lahaina.
“We know this has been an incredibly difficult time for so many in our community, and the recent kona storm brought another overwhelming layer of loss and disruption. County crews are working around the clock to respond, and please know you are not alone as we get through this together, one step at a time. As we approach this lesser kona storm, we encourage you to take extra steps to prepare your loved ones and your homes, especially because we are still responding to impacts from the recent kona storm.”
Meeting survivors where they are.
As part of our continued Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP) outreach, teams from the DHS DCMP partner organizations recently went into the community to connect directly with wildfire survivors.
Instead of asking survivors to come to us, our teams are visiting homes and neighborhoods, making sure those with disabilities, transportation challenges, or other barriers can still access the support they need.
This coordinated outreach ensures no one is left behind in Maui’s recovery.
Mahalo to all the case managers and partner organizations working together to serve our community.
#MauiRecovery #MauiStrong #DisasterCaseManagement #CommunityOutreach #WildfireRecovery
Meeting survivors where they are.
As part of our continued Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP) outreach, teams from the DHS DCMP partner organizations recently went into the community to connect directly with wildfire survivors.
Instead of asking survivors to come to us, our teams are visiting homes and neighborhoods, making sure those with disabilities, transportation challenges, or other barriers can still access the support they need.
This coordinated outreach ensures no one is left behind in Maui’s recovery.
Mahalo to all the case managers and partner organizations working together to serve our community.
#MauiRecovery #MauiStrong #DisasterCaseManagement #CommunityOutreach #WildfireRecovery
Training the teams supporting Maui’s recovery.
GEM recently hosted a Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP) training in Maui, bringing together case managers and supervisors from four community-based organizations working directly with wildfire survivors.
As the lead support organization for the DHS DCMP, GEM coordinated trainings with partners including FEMA, MEO, and others, covering housing support, construction cost analysis for rebuilding, and best practices for helping families navigate recovery.
Strong coordination means stronger support for survivors.
Mahalo to all the case managers and partners working every day to help Maui families rebuild. To learn more visit GEM.org #MauiStrong #MauiRecovery #DisasterCaseManagement #WildfireRecovery #HousingSupport
Training the teams supporting Maui’s recovery.
GEM recently hosted a Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP) training in Maui, bringing together case managers and supervisors from four community-based organizations working directly with wildfire survivors.
As the lead support organization for the DHS DCMP, GEM coordinated trainings with partners including FEMA, MEO, and others, covering housing support, construction cost analysis for rebuilding, and best practices for helping families navigate recovery.
Strong coordination means stronger support for survivors.
Mahalo to all the case managers and partners working every day to help Maui families rebuild. To learn more visit GEM.org #MauiStrong #MauiRecovery #DisasterCaseManagement #WildfireRecovery #HousingSupport
Lāhainā ʻOhana Gingerbread Decorating
This past holiday day season, GEM Hawaiʻi was honored to organize and produce three free community gingerbread decorating events across West Maui, creating safe, joyful, and family-centered spaces for connection during the holiday season.
Thanks to the generous support of Imua Maui Community Healing Initiative, we were able to:
* Serve 300+ community members
* Host events at 3 locations
* Distribute $1,000+ in gift cards and raffle prizes
* Provide every family with a gingerbread house & decorating kit
From the YMCA West Side Resource Center, to a pop-up event at Lāhainā Jodo Mission, to Ka Laʻi Ola housing community—each gathering reinforced belonging, creativity, and collective healing through shared celebration.
Mahalo to our partners, volunteers, and families who made these moments of joy possible. @olamaui @kalaiola @lahainaymca @homeaidhawaii @hawaiiancouncil
Lāhainā ʻOhana Gingerbread Decorating
This past holiday day season, GEM Hawaiʻi was honored to organize and produce three free community gingerbread decorating events across West Maui, creating safe, joyful, and family-centered spaces for connection during the holiday season.
Thanks to the generous support of Imua Maui Community Healing Initiative, we were able to:
* Serve 300+ community members
* Host events at 3 locations
* Distribute $1,000+ in gift cards and raffle prizes
* Provide every family with a gingerbread house & decorating kit
From the YMCA West Side Resource Center, to a pop-up event at Lāhainā Jodo Mission, to Ka Laʻi Ola housing community—each gathering reinforced belonging, creativity, and collective healing through shared celebration.
Mahalo to our partners, volunteers, and families who made these moments of joy possible. @olamaui @kalaiola @lahainaymca @homeaidhawaii @hawaiiancouncil
Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) is looking for compassionate, detail-oriented Program Advocates to join our Maui Fire Recovery team. In this role, you’ll work directly with wildfire survivors to help them navigate interim housing solutions, providing guidance, stability, and hope during a critical phase of recovery.
What You’ll Do:
• Support Maui fire survivors in identifying and securing temporary housing
• Guide participants through housing options, applications, and next steps
• Maintain accurate case notes and records
• Coordinate with landlords, partners, and internal teams
• Provide empathetic, survivor-centered assistance
Skills We’re Looking For:
• Strong computer skills
• Comfort using Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail, etc.)
• Knowledge of the local Maui housing market
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• A compassionate, solutions-focused mindset
Why Join GEM?
Be part of a mission-driven team making real impact for families rebuilding their lives after disaster. Your work will directly help survivors move from crisis to stability.
Help us turn recovery into reality.Interested? Apply now or email your resume to [email protected]
Location: Maui, Hawaiʻi
Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) is looking for compassionate, detail-oriented Program Advocates to join our Maui Fire Recovery team. In this role, you’ll work directly with wildfire survivors to help them navigate interim housing solutions, providing guidance, stability, and hope during a critical phase of recovery.
What You’ll Do:
• Support Maui fire survivors in identifying and securing temporary housing
• Guide participants through housing options, applications, and next steps
• Maintain accurate case notes and records
• Coordinate with landlords, partners, and internal teams
• Provide empathetic, survivor-centered assistance
Skills We’re Looking For:
• Strong computer skills
• Comfort using Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail, etc.)
• Knowledge of the local Maui housing market
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• A compassionate, solutions-focused mindset
Why Join GEM?
Be part of a mission-driven team making real impact for families rebuilding their lives after disaster. Your work will directly help survivors move from crisis to stability.
Help us turn recovery into reality.Interested? Apply now or email your resume to [email protected]
Location: Maui, Hawaiʻi
Today @govhawaii and @govjoshgreen announced that Hawal’i has secured a FEMA housing extension for Maui wildfire survivors through February 2027. I worked directly with the administration to make sure families aren’t left without support while recovery continues.
This approval ensures continued stability for families still recovering from the August 2023 wildfires and aligns with my administration’s commitment to continue state housing support through the same timeframe. Federal and state programs will now run concurrently, providing certainty and continuity for survivors.
Housing is the foundation of recovery. This extension gives Maui’s families the time and support they need as permanent housing continues to come online. @danielle.dreis
Today @govhawaii and @govjoshgreen announced that Hawal’i has secured a FEMA housing extension for Maui wildfire survivors through February 2027. I worked directly with the administration to make sure families aren’t left without support while recovery continues.
This approval ensures continued stability for families still recovering from the August 2023 wildfires and aligns with my administration’s commitment to continue state housing support through the same timeframe. Federal and state programs will now run concurrently, providing certainty and continuity for survivors.
Housing is the foundation of recovery. This extension gives Maui’s families the time and support they need as permanent housing continues to come online. @danielle.dreis
🎄✨ GINGERBREAD DECORATING PARTY – EVENT RECAP! ✨🎄
Our holiday Gingerbread Decorating Party at the YMCA West Side Resource Center was a huge success — a full house, joyful energy, and smiling families everywhere! The room was filled with laughter, creativity, and sweet holiday spirit as keiki and parents decorated their gingerbread houses together.
A heartfelt mahalo to:
💜 Imua Maui Community Healing Initiative – for providing the grant that made this beautiful community event possible.
🏡 YMCA of Maui – for generously hosting us and welcoming our families into their space.
💛 The GEM Hawai‘i team – for managing the entire event seamlessly and ensuring everything ran smoothly from start to finish.
📲 Ola Maui - for community outreach and comms support
The photos and videos say it all — happy keiki, happy families, and a truly unforgettable afternoon of connection and celebration.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make this event so special.
Stay tuned for more community events coming soon! 🎅🏽🍬🏠✨
🎄✨ GINGERBREAD DECORATING PARTY – EVENT RECAP! ✨🎄
Our holiday Gingerbread Decorating Party at the YMCA West Side Resource Center was a huge success — a full house, joyful energy, and smiling families everywhere! The room was filled with laughter, creativity, and sweet holiday spirit as keiki and parents decorated their gingerbread houses together.
A heartfelt mahalo to:
💜 Imua Maui Community Healing Initiative – for providing the grant that made this beautiful community event possible.
🏡 YMCA of Maui – for generously hosting us and welcoming our families into their space.
💛 The GEM Hawai‘i team – for managing the entire event seamlessly and ensuring everything ran smoothly from start to finish.
📲 Ola Maui - for community outreach and comms support
The photos and videos say it all — happy keiki, happy families, and a truly unforgettable afternoon of connection and celebration.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make this event so special.
Stay tuned for more community events coming soon! 🎅🏽🍬🏠✨
🎄🍬 GINGERBREAD DECORATING PARTY! 🍬🎄
Presented by Imua Maui Community Healing Initiative, GEM Hawaiʻi, HomeAid Hawai’i, Ka La’i Ola, and Ola Maui.
Gather your ‘ohana and join us for a festive holiday celebration filled with:
🎅🏽 Pics with Santa
🎶 Music & holiday vibes
🍽️ Food & Snacks
🎁 Tons of prizes
🍭 FREE gingerbread house + decorating kit for every family that RSVPs!
📍 Ka La’i Ola
322 Ho’o’ulu St, Lahaina
📅 Dec 18th • 5-7 PM
💫 Spots will fill fast — RSVP now to save your family’s kit! https://forms.gle/wotxXqpp4sTEnKxD7 @homeaidahawaii @olamauillc @kalaiola
🎄🍬 GINGERBREAD DECORATING PARTY! 🍬🎄
Presented by Imua Maui Community Healing Initiative, GEM Hawaiʻi, HomeAid Hawai’i, Ka La’i Ola, and Ola Maui.
Gather your ‘ohana and join us for a festive holiday celebration filled with:
🎅🏽 Pics with Santa
🎶 Music & holiday vibes
🍽️ Food & Snacks
🎁 Tons of prizes
🍭 FREE gingerbread house + decorating kit for every family that RSVPs!
📍 Ka La’i Ola
322 Ho’o’ulu St, Lahaina
📅 Dec 18th • 5-7 PM
💫 Spots will fill fast — RSVP now to save your family’s kit! https://forms.gle/wotxXqpp4sTEnKxD7 @homeaidahawaii @olamauillc @kalaiola
JUNTE-SE A NÓS ESTE FIM-DE-SEMANA: Pop-up de Recursos de Recuperação da Comunidade e da Força de Trabalho | Domingo, 12 de outubro | 11h00 - 16h00 @familypromiseofhawaii @pacificgateway @alohaunitedway @aloha_house_inc @svdpusa @danielle.dreis
JUNTE-SE A NÓS ESTE FIM-DE-SEMANA: Pop-up de Recursos de Recuperação da Comunidade e da Força de Trabalho | Domingo, 12 de outubro | 11h00 - 16h00 @familypromiseofhawaii @pacificgateway @alohaunitedway @aloha_house_inc @svdpusa @danielle.dreis
Resumo das estatísticas
Programa de assistência ao arrendamento para pessoas elegíveis para a FEMA
Fase 1: Resposta imediata
A nossa equipa GEM BStrong está agora no terreno em Maui, no Havai, a ajudar as pessoas que foram gravemente afectadas pelos incêndios florestais. A nossa assistência imediata será prestada sob a forma dos nossos BStrong cash cards, que oferecem aos sobreviventes a flexibilidade de comprarem os bens de que mais necessitam. Também ofereceremos assistência para alojamento de curto prazo no Airbnb, soluções de alojamento de longo prazo, projectos de reconstrução e assistência para a compra de ferramentas de empreiteiro para aqueles cujas casas foram gravemente danificadas ou completamente destruídas pelos incêndios. Também ofereceremos apoio aos animais de estimação afectados. A nossa equipa estará no terreno indefinidamente, garantindo que as pessoas em Maui receberão todo o apoio necessário a longo prazo.
O GEM estará agora a funcionar a partir do nosso novo escritório em Maui, que está aberto para ajudar com os pedidos de alojamento a longo prazo, os nossos cartões de assistência financeira BStrong e outras ajudas.
Soluções de alojamento a longo prazo
O GEM está atualmente a oferecer assistência habitacional a longo prazo às pessoas que ficaram desalojadas devido aos incêndios de Lahaina. Neste programa, estamos a ajudar a aliviar os custos de habitação das famílias que têm de se mudar para novos espaços. Também forneceremos a estas casas as primeiras necessidades básicas, através dos nossos kits de boas-vindas do GEM.
Parceiros
