In Maui, the impact of wildfires has underscored the critical need for robust disaster recovery support systems. Recognizing this, the County of Maui Office of Recovery is promoting expanded Disaster Case Management (DCM) services to aid those affected by the devastating fires. In a statement obtained by Maui County, Mayor Richard Bissen emphasized that "our shared goal remains the same: to ensure every survivor receives the support they need." The Disaster Case Management Program is a nexus for survivors, connecting them with resources meant to facilitate recovery.
Stressing the vital role of DCMs in recovery, John Smith, Administrator of the County's Office of Recovery, pointed out the services provided, including "housing assistance, mental health services, transportation support, financial aid and more." He also stressed that these case managers help to create individualized plans for those reeling from the fires, and they serve "as a consistent guide and advocate for wildfire survivors throughout their long-term recovery journey," as mentioned on the Maui County release. The spectrum of services DCMs offer, is broad, amounting to more than $140 million accessed through referrals and almost 13,000 individual referrals for unmet needs related to the disaster.
There are two key initiatives designed to streamline the recovery process: the State of Hawaiʻi Disaster Case Management Program and the Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Disaster Case Management Program. As outlined in the Maui County announcement, these programs operate in tandem to prevent overlapping services, ensuring that each survivor's unique situation is addressed effectively. Since its launch in November 2023, the state program has been providing support ranging from housing assistance to emotional support, accessible by calling various hotlines depending on the caller's location.
The Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama program, meanwhile, adopts a more community-centric approach and incorporates local cultural practices into the recovery process. No FEMA status is required to participate in this program, making it a more inclusive option for those in need of assistance. Notably, since its inception, Hoʻōla LTRG has already distributed more than $117,000 directly in support to impacted families, sometimes making all the difference in a survivor's ability to regroup, and rebuild in the wake of loss.
Access to these programs is facilitated through various channels including phone lines and online platforms. Survivors of the Maui wildfires can reach out via the specified contact information to initiate the support process and receive guidance on maneuvering through the available resources. For a broader overview of recovery options and updates, the county directs individuals to the Maui Nui Strong website.
