Wildfires in Maui: Church providing aid to those affected

Aug 12, 2023, 9:00 AM

Maui wildfires have devastated the historic city of Lahaina, Hawaii. The Church of Jesus Christ of ...

Maui wildfires have devastated the historic city of Lahaina, Hawaii.(Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

(Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

SALT LAKE CITY — In response to the devastating wildfires that wreaked havoc on Maui, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has issued a statement outlining its commitment to aiding those affected. The church will offer support and temporary shelter to individuals struggling with the aftermath of these deadly fires.

Tragically, the death toll has risen to 80, underscoring the situation’s urgency.

The Church Newsroom article states:

As part of this emergency response, the Church of Jesus Christ has provided two meetinghouses as temporary shelters. Two other meetinghouses, located in the fire zones in Lahaina, are undamaged. Water and other basic needs are being provided to evacuees in these areas. The Church will continue to respond as needed based on coordination with civil authorities and community relief organizations.

Due to the limited functionality of active cell towers, effective communication has become a challenge. Local congregation leaders face difficulties contacting church members amidst these communication constraints.

All church missionaries in the impacted areas have been confirmed as safe. Many of these missionaries are anticipated to participate in relief endeavors, helping those in need actively.

Similarly, no casualties or significant injuries have been reported among Latter-day Saints. However, many individuals remain unaccounted for.

Regardless of religious affiliation, the church is steadfast in its commitment to extend aid. In addition to their congregants, the church will allocate supplementary resources and provisions to the affected residents, exemplifying a compassionate response to this crisis.

 

Bonneville International Corporation, the company that owns KSL NewsRadio, is a subsidiary of Deseret Management Corporation, which is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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Wildfires in Maui: Church providing aid to those affected