Maui Couple recovers from Lahaina Fire

Aloha everyone. Thank you for being willing to help!

My name is Starr Tendo Begley. I was born and raised on Maui and had been living and working in Lahaina as a surf instructor for Maui Wave Riders. I loved my job and community.

My partner, Eric St. Onge, has called Maui home for 25 years. He works as a surf instructor and is also a Recovery Specialist with a huge heart and passion to help individuals rebuild their lives after the devastating affects of substance abuse disorder.

We are both in a rebuilding stage of life right now.

On the afternoon of August 8, 2023 we were both home from work due to high winds when our entire town caught fire and was destroyed.

We lived on Mill Street at the bottom of Lahainaluna road.

By the time we knew the fire was in our neighborhood, it was too late to grab anything besides my purse, our phones and our pet rescue pigeon Jenkies. We are so grateful that we were able to get her into the truck with us!

Our neighborhood was surrounded by flames as we drove out. We evacuated to my work place on Prison street, but soon after we had to evacuate there as well. It was a terrifying experience, one we share with so many, and we are grateful to be alive.

I realize that there are so many families that need help. And that those of us that are alive and not missing family members are the fortunate ones.

Because of this, we have hesitated to create a GoFundMe page.

We heard that funding is coming in from all over the world from people who want to directly help families that lost housing and employment due to the fire. We are one of those families and we graciously accept your help.

Thank you for helping us rebuild. We had a beautiful life and we are in the process of rebuilding our lives with more beauty, grace and hope. We will use these funds to get back on our feet and thrive.

We have been taught to pay it forward and intend to continue to shine a light for those experiencing darkness.

Thank you again. You are appreciated!