The ongoing recovery in Lahaina received a boost with the establishment of Ho‘ōla Hale, a volunteer base dedicated to the rebuilding efforts following the devastating wildfires. The Ho’ōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) hosted a blessing ceremony on October 6th to mark the occasion. The base, located at Maria Lanakila Catholic Church’s Sacred Hearts School, will serve as a temporary housing and operational headquarters for volunteers from the Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS). These volunteers will dedicate their time and skills to rebuilding homes for those affected by the wildfires.
The establishment of Ho‘ōla Hale is a significant step in addressing the housing crisis in Lahaina. According to a recent report from Yale Climate Connections, fewer than 100 homes have been rebuilt two years after the fires, and the poverty rate among survivors has nearly doubled. Rhonda Alexander-Monkres, executive director of Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Disaster Long Term Recovery Group, emphasizes the long-term nature of the recovery process, stating, “Recovery takes a long time. It takes a really long time.”
The partnership between Ho‘ōla LTRG and MDS, along with other organizations like Hawaiʻi Community Lending and Habitat for Humanity Maui, is crucial in accelerating the rebuilding process. Maui Now's reporting highlights that this new base will allow MDS volunteers to focus on constructing homes for wildfire survivors, contributing to the overall effort to restore housing and strengthen the community's recovery. The group is planning on constructing five homes, with construction starting in October 2025.
The involvement of volunteer organizations like Mennonite Disaster Service underscores the importance of community support in the recovery effort. Hawaii Public Radio has reported on the collaborative efforts, which includes repurposing portions of the Sacred Hearts School campus. This coordinated approach, bringing together local and national organizations, is vital for providing both immediate and long-term support to the affected families and the broader Lahaina community.
For local businesses, the influx of volunteer labor signifies a potential boost to construction-related industries, including material suppliers and local contractors. Additionally, the presence of volunteers could indirectly stimulate other sectors, such as hospitality and food services, as volunteers require accommodations and sustenance. Entrepreneurs and investors should recognize these opportunities and consider how they can contribute to and benefit from the ongoing recovery.
