The Power of Charity Organizations: Grassroots Growth in Times of Crisis

Charity organizations are the backbone of thriving communities, stepping in during times of crisis when needs are greatest.
Grassroots efforts often begin with small groups of passionate individuals responding to an immediate need. Over time, these initiatives grow, fueled by partnerships, volunteers, and a shared commitment to make a difference. The Maui wildfires are a powerful reminder of how essential these organizations are in times of disaster.

Though each nonprofit may have a unique mission, we are all united by a common purpose: to serve our communities, uplift humanity, and build a more resilient future. At Hungry Heroes Hawaii (HHH), we believe that when the basic human needs—food, water, and shelter—are met, individuals are empowered to align with their inherent genius, fostering a culture that thrives organically. Our work is guided by the spirit of Aloha ʻĀina (love for the land), and we are committed to nurturing meaningful connections between people, place, and purpose.

Grassroots organizations thrive through collaboration, adaptability, and shared responsibility. As needs evolve, organizations like HHH continuously re-evaluate and reorganize to stay effective and aligned with community needs.

Together, through our collective efforts, we embody resilience, generosity, and hope for a better tomorrow.

Nonprofits Leading the Maui Wildfire Response

Living Pono Project

Slogan: “Growing Futures for All”
Mission: Makale’a and Hoapili, a husband and wife team, started the Living Pono Project in response to adversities faced by Kānaka Maoli and islanders to stay in Hawaii, thrive as a people, and retain cultural identity.

​This NGO focuses on at-risk youth, vulnerable populations, people with disabilities, and re-entering individuals. These issues hit home as Hoapili’s younger brother is challenged with developmental disabilities. Their goal is to create opportunities in sustainable industries, rooted in Hawaiian cultural values, where all can prosper.
Website: Visit Living Pono 

HHH – Help Heal Hunger

Slogan: “Feed Hope and Nourish Maui, from Farm to Hungry, with Love!”
Mission: Hungry Heroes Hawaii, a Maui-based grassroots nonprofit, is dedicated to addressing the foundational needs of food, water, and shelter for fire survivors and the hungry on Maui. Through our meal program and partnerships with local farms, we deliver nourishing meals and fresh produce with love, fostering the spirit of Aloha ‘Āina and helping individuals thrive.
Website: Visit HHH 

Common Ground Collective (CGC)

Slogan: “Building community through sustainability and resilience.”
Mission: Partnering with local farmers to promote food security and sustainable farming.
Website: Visit CGC

Maui Rapid Response (MRR)

Slogan: “Immediate action for immediate need.”
Mission: Mobilizing volunteers and resources for swift disaster relief.
Website: Visit MRR

Global Empowerment Mission (GEM)

Slogan: “Providing immediate disaster relief, sustainable development, and empowerment.”
Mission: GEM focuses on offering rapid response and sustainable aid during emergencies while also promoting long-term recovery initiatives. Their efforts extend across the globe, helping communities rebuild and restore resilience in the wake of disasters.
Website: Visit Global Empowerment Mission (GEM)

Maui Food Bank

Slogan: “No one in Maui should go hungry.”
Mission: Distributing emergency food supplies to those in need.
Website: Visit Maui Food Bank

World Central Kitchen (WCK)

Slogan: “Wherever there’s a fight so hungry people may eat, we will be there.”
Mission: WCK uses the power of food to provide meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. They work on the frontlines to serve warm meals to people affected by disasters and promote food resilience in vulnerable areas. Their presence in Maui following the wildfires brought hope and nourishment to thousands.
Website: Visit World Central Kitchen (WCK)

 

All Hands and Hearts

Slogan: “Responding to today’s disasters, building resilience for tomorrow.”
Mission: Volunteer-powered rebuilding efforts in disaster zones.
Website: Visit All Hands and Hearts

Maui Rescue Mission

Slogan: “Rescue, restore, rebuild.”
Mission: Providing shelter and care to those experiencing homelessness.
Website: Visit Maui Rescue Mission

Hawaiian Community Foundation

Slogan: “Empowering the spirit of aloha.”
Mission: Offering grants and support to Maui residents and programs.
Website: Visit Hawaiian Community Foundation

Hua Momona

Mission: Promoting sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty.
Website: Visit Hua Momona

Maui United Way

Slogan: “Live united.”
Mission: Mobilizing resources to create lasting community change.
Website: Visit Maui United Way

Help Maui Rise

Mission: Supporting long-term recovery and resilience initiatives.
Website: Visit Help Maui Rise

Lahaina Strong

Mission: Supporting residents in rebuilding Lahaina after the wildfires.
Website: Visit Lahaina Strong

Brown Cross Hui

Mission: Offering direct relief and essential supplies during disaster recovery efforts.
Website: Visit Brown Cross Hui

Pacific Birth Collective

Mission: Supporting women and families through birth, postpartum, and parenting education.
Website: Visit Pacific Birth Collective

Napili Noho

Mission: Providing relief to displaced residents of Napili and beyond.
Website: Visit Napili Noho

KaKo’o Distribution Center

Mission: Distributing supplies and essential goods to affected Maui residents.
Website: KaKo’o Distribution 

Feed My Sheep

Mission: Delivering food and care to those experiencing hunger across Maui.
Website: Visit Feed My Sheep

Kimokeo Foundation

Mission: Promoting Hawaiian culture, education, and conservation initiatives.
Website: Visit Kimokeo Foundation

Chef Hui

Mission: Our mission is to create opportunities to connect the culinary world with their community through a strong network of local chefs and produce providers.
Website: Visit Chef Hui

Other Impactful Maui Nonprofits

Imua Family Services

Mission: Empowering children and families through education and therapeutic programs.
Website: Visit Imua Family Services

Women Helping Women

Mission: Supporting survivors of domestic violence through advocacy and services.
Website: Visit Women Helping Women

Maui Humane Society

Mission: Promoting animal welfare and caring for animals in need.
Website: Visit Maui Humane Society

Hospice Maui

Mission: Providing compassionate end-of-life care.
Website: Visit Hospice Maui

Pacific Whale Foundation

Mission: Promoting ocean conservation and marine education.
Website: Visit Pacific Whale Foundation

Hawai’i Farmers Union United

Mission: Advocating for sustainable farming practices and agricultural education.
Website: Visit Hawai’i Farmers Union United

Hawai’i Land Trust

Mission: Protecting and conserving Hawai’i’s natural landscapes.
Website: Visit Hawai’i Land Trust

Mahalo to these organizations and countless volunteers for their dedication to serving the Maui community and embodying the spirit of aloha.