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I have created this GoFundMe campaign on behalf of my sister, Claire Barclay.
As many of you may already know, a devastating wildfire swept through Lahaina this week- the majority of the town is gone. The videos and images being shared are heartbreaking.
The destruction caused by this fire has left Claire and her boyfriend Sammy without a place to call home and has shattered the lives of countless others in the community.
Claire and Sammy are safe, and have shelter- thanks to the kindness of their close friends, Kyle and Sarah Turner. Not much is certain beyond that. They have not yet been able to return home to attempt to recover anything that remains; their workplaces are gone; the town they have called home for many years is decimated.
Claire is not the type of person to ask for help. I chose to create this fundraising campaign after multiple people offered to assist- but I asked for her blessing to create it beforehand. As soon as I did, she mentioned others less fortunate than her and her desire to help them first with any money that is raised.
How You Can Help:
I have set up this GoFundMe campaign to support Claire and Sammy as they navigate the challenging road ahead. The funds raised will serve a dual purpose:
- Stability for Claire and Sammy: I hope to help provide Claire and Sammy with the means to sustain, find solace, and start anew. Your contributions will go toward covering living costs until they can find new jobs, will allow Claire to continue with her final semester of nursing school(!), and will help them both to regain a sense of stability and security.
- Supporting Their Community: Claire and Sammy have developed a strong ohana during their time on Maui- both have been there for friends, neighbors, and acquaintances, just as they have been there for Claire and Sammy. A portion of the funds raised will go towards aiding those who have also been affected by the fire, reinforcing the bonds that Claire and Sammy have cultivated over the years.
I'd like to also mention some additional resources for supporting those in need:
Maui Strong Fund - created by Hawaii Community Foundation
Maui Food Bank - Maui's primary safety net for hunger relief
Praying for Ohana 2023 - Facebook group created by Claire's wonderful friend, Rachal Proffer
Maui Fires People Locator - crowdsourced listing of people affected by the fire, and their status
Your Impact:
Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a difference in Claire and Sammy's lives and the lives of those they care for. Your support will not only assist in helping Claire and Sammy persevere, but also help them continue to carry the spirit of aloha in their community. Your contributions will send a powerful message of solidarity, compassion, and love, proving that even in the face of tragedy, we can come together to rebuild and uplift each other.
Final Thoughts:
As Claire's brother, I am humbled by the outpouring of support we have already witnessed. Your kindness and generosity are a testament to the incredible network of people she has surrounded herself with. Let us unite to provide Claire and Sammy with the means to rebuild their lives and continue making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Please consider making a donation, sharing this campaign with your friends and family, and keeping Claire and Sammy in your thoughts and prayers. Together, we can help them find hope amidst the ashes and remind them that they are not alone on this journey.
Thank you for your love, support, and generosity. Mahalo.
Matt Barclay
Organizer and beneficiary
Claire Barclay
Beneficiary