Wildfires in Hawaii are causing widespread devastation across the state, forcing residents to abandon their homes in the face of unrelenting destruction.
Here's a look at the individuals and corporations stepping forward with donations to support those affected in the island paradise.
What Happened: Wildfires in Hawaii have claimed the lives of 93 people, making it one of the deadliest U.S. wildfires in the last 100 years.
The historic Lahaina Town has seen massive destruction as the island of Maui has been hit by wildfires which began spreading on Aug. 8.
Companies that have major operations in Hawaii could be severely impacted by the wildfires and the rebuilding that follows the wake of the destruction.
Hawaii Electric Industries HE has been targeted in a report from The Washington Post for not doing enough to prevent wildfires.
Other Hawaiian-based companies include Bank of Hawaii Corporation BOH and Hawaiian Holdings HA, which could both be impacted by the evacuation of residents and calls for tourists to stop traveling to the state.
Related Link: Benzinga Buzz: Jason Momoa Explains How You Can Help Maui After Wildfire Destruction
Millionaires Helping Out: One of the world’s richest people is helping out with the efforts in Hawaii. Billionaire Jeff Bezos and fiancée Lauren Sanchez announced a $100 million donation via their Instagram personal accounts.
“Jeff and I are heartbroken by what’s happening in Maui. We are thinking of all the families that have lost so much and a community that has been left devastated,” Sanchez posted.
Sanchez emphasized that addressing Hawaii's immediate needs is crucial, but the focus must also extend to the long-term rebuilding efforts that are equally vital.
“Jeff and I are creating a Maui Fund and are dedicating $100 million to help Maui get back on its feet now and over the coming years as the continuing needs reveal themselves.”
Bezos, who is the third-richest person in the world, valued at $163 billion, owns a 14-acre estate in Hawaii.
Another billionaire who is lending a hand in Hawaii is media mogul Oprah Winfrey, who has been helping out in person. Winfrey was filmed handing supplies out to residents in the state.
Along with helping in Hawaii, Winfrey has said she will make a “major donation” to the Hawaiian restoration efforts.
Professional golfer Collin Morikawa, whose family is from Hawaii, is pledging support to Hawaii via his performance for the rest of the PGA Tour in August. Morikawa, whose family owns a restaurant in Hawaii, said he will donate $1,000 for every birdie he makes this month on tour to Hawaii.
“The people of Hawaii are going to need all the support that we can give them,” Morikawa said.
In the St. Jude Championship over the weekend, Morikawa had 15 birdies and 1 eagle, likely leading to a donation of $16,000 with more to come.
“It’s extra motivation and just perspective, I think, while we’re out there.”
The golfer said he would also ask his sponsors and supporters to make donations to Hawaii.
Companies Helping Out: UFC President Dana White announced the sports league will donate $1 million to the relief efforts in Hawaii. The sports league, which is owned by Endeavor Group Holdings EDR, will also donate 100% of the proceeds from a special “UFC Loves Hawaii” shirt that was created, according to MMAJunkie.
“It’s been horrible to see the wildfires raging across Maui, causing devastation to that beautiful place and the amazing people who call it home,” White said. “I want all of you to know you’re not alone. The Hawaii people embody the warrior spirit like no one else, and we stand with you.”
Investment banking company Jefferies Financial Group JEF announced it would donate one day of its trading revenue to help the relief efforts in Hawaii. The company will donate 100% of net global trading commissions made on Aug. 16. Jefferies will also donate $1 million on top of the commission proceeds.
Footwear company Skechers USA SKX announced it will donate $250,000 to the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. Along with the donation, Skechers is also shipping “tens of thousands” of new shoes, apparel, socks and backpacks to residents of Hawaii.
The company saw the loss of its Maui Outlets store in the fires and has four remaining stores in the state, with plans for a new Maui store already underway for 2024.
“We have been connected to the people of Hawaii since our first Skechers store opened on the islands in 1998, and in Maui when we opened our store in Lahaina,” Skechers President Michael Greenberg said.
Video game and consumer products company The Pokemon Company, which is partially owned by Nintendo Co NTDOY, announced a $200,000 donation to Hawaii’s Wildfire Relief Fund.
VentureBeat, which shared news of the donation, said that the contribution follows the company announcing that the 2024 World Championships will take place in Honolulu, Hawaii. The World Championships were previously held in Hawaii in 2007, 2010 and 2012. The 2024 event marks the first return to the U.S. for the Pokemon World Championships since 2019.
Teladoc Health TDOC announced it would offer free general medical telehealth visits for Hawaiian residents and first responders.
“When medical resources are already strained during natural disasters, virtual care can help patients manage wildfire-induced flare ups of chronic illnesses, such as asthma,” Teladoc Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vidya Raman-Tangella said.
Nestle NSRGY unit Purina announced a $25,000 donation to Greater Good Charities as part of the Hawaii relief efforts.
Read Next: iPhone 14 Satellite SOS Feature Rescues Family Trapped In Maui Wildfires
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