Help Restore Hope; Families Rebuild Their Lives

Aloha to our beloved friends and kind-hearted souls,

The devastating Lahaina wildfires have left a deep scar on our local community, reshaping countless lives. Indeed, the stories being shared are heartbreaking and among those stories is of my father-in-law whom narrowly escaped the inferno.

During the height of the fires, as the menacing flames made their way through the houses on Lahainaluna, my father-in-law found himself fighting for his life. Desperately trying to evacuate with his partner in their car, they were forced to abandon it amidst unmovable traffic and blocked roads. They ditched the car and sprinted uphill to the safety of the Lahaina bypass. Fortunately, a nephew driving through saw them and brought them to a safe location to rest. The next day, a friend said they saw his car on the road. He went to check and it was still intact so they made a safe evacuation to the other side of the island. But they were left with a heart-wrenching reality: their beloved home and all their cherished possessions were now ashes.

This GoFundMe initiative is for my father-in-law Ernesto Sablay and the many families I know who had their homes and everything they owned burned to the ground.

We understand that the world has its challenges today, and every one of us carries our share. However, even the tiniest gestures can pierce through the darkest moments, offering light and comfort. Each donation, no matter its size, carries the power of compassion and hope. I humbly ask for your support to aid families that have faced immeasurable loss.

About Me: I lived in Lahaina years ago until I relocated to Virginia. Although I now reside thousands of miles away, I am coordinating relief and rebuilding efforts 5for my family and friends who are working through the next several days and possibly weeks of survival and uncertainty.

All contributions made here will be disbursed to the families directly, ensuring they are used immediately for what they need to rebuild their lives and their homes.

Mahalo nui loa for your generosity and heart. Together, we rise, rebuild, and rekindle the spirit of Aloha.

-Ilaisa Sablay