Aloha, my name is Kara Taguchi and I am starting this fundraiser in hopes of raising funds for my Auntie E (Evelyn Tanaka-Toba) and her surrounding neighbors who lost everything in the Lahaina fire.

On 8/8, my auntie lost her home off Lahainaluna Road in the devastating fires, destroying the homes in her neighborhood as well as the historic Lahaina town. Without warning, my aunt had just minutes to evacuate and escape the fast-moving fire fueled by 60 mph winds. Instead of taking the time to collect their belongings, her neighbors selflessly acted on evacuating my 86-year-old aunt to safety. Ultimately, none of their homes survived the fire, leaving everyone with only the clothes on their backs.

We made this gofundme account for Auntie E’s unexpected expenses due to the fire. Additionally, we as a family want to raise awareness and donations for the families in my aunt’s neighborhood who not only saved her life last week, but have helped her with yardwork, grocery runs, rides to doctor's appointments and visited her daily to check-in. Many of these neighbors are senior citizens who have also lost their homes, vehicles, pets, and belongings.

Many have asked how they can help from afar, and we hope this will serve as a direct line to assist the impacted community, as more formal relief efforts are organized. Part of the proceeds will be shared with the community that she loved so much, so that they can start the recovery process, rebuild their lives, and hopes for a better future.

Thank you for all of your well wishes and aloha during this difficult time.

For full transparency, funds will be deposited into the Toba account and distributed accordingly.