Many of you have seen the video of Waialua Beach Road, where the Otake River overflowed and devastated the row of homes near Waialua Elementary School. One of the homes is owned by the Calaustro Family, who has lived there since the 1960s. The Calaustro home was hit with such force that it was lifted off its foundation and moved twenty feet, crushing everything in its path, including the truck (wedged between the house and debris) and van, which is still stuck in the mud and flood water. Everything in the home was unsalvagable.

Joseph Calaustro, Jr., also known as Boji, needs our help. A 29-year Air Force veteran stationed at Mt. Kaala and 15 years as an FAA Air Traffic Systems Specialist, Joseph has made a positive impact on the Waialua/Haleiwa community for many years. He was a lifeguard and swimming instructor at Waialua District Park. Currently, he commutes from Oahu to Maui, where he works two weeks at a time. Those on Maui know him as Unko Joe.

Boji was my "big brother" growing up. I've known him for nearly all of my life, as our parents were good friends and would camp or play poker together. Boji would look out for my best interest and give me advice if I needed it; he made sure I stayed out of trouble, and he helped to raise me into the person I am today.

Donations will go toward assessing the damage and, if salvagable, restoring the home to livable conditions. Mahalo to those who reached out to help the Waialua/Haleiwa community. On behalf of Joseph Calaustro (Boji) and Family, we send a heartfelt thank you for the support, love and prayers.