My name is Makani, and my 'ohana—my four children and I—have always been the ones to lend a hand in our Haleiwa community. We help create programs, support local projects, and my children are youth leaders, work at the loko i'a fishponds, support community food systems, cultural preservation and perpetuation. We coach and are active in our community. One of my sons is about to enter the fire academy. As a single mom and caregiver to my parents, I’ve always believed in giving back and working to make our home a better place for everyone.

But after the recent Kona Low Storm, our lives changed overnight. Our home was caught where two floods merged, and we lost nearly everything. The roof is collapsing, our septic system is unusable, and our car was lost in the flood. Our generation family home and farm—old lo'i land we are working to restore—was also deeply affected. Right now, our home is not livable, and we’re facing the daunting task of rebuilding from the ground up.

The funds raised here will help us cover days off work needed for repairs, fix the roof, install a new septic system, and tow away our car. This is the first time I’ve ever asked for help, and it’s humbling for all of us. We are so grateful for any support you can give. Your kindness will help us restore our home and continue serving the community we love.