Aloha,

My name is Takara Gallinger.

I am making this Go Fund Me on behalf of a family whom I personally hold near and dear, Koz, Ronabeth Ion and their 3 beautiful, adorable daughters. I have had the honor of them in my life for the past 12 years on the Big Island of Hawaii. Unfortunately on August 15th, 2026 They experienced a devastating event. During Hurricane Lala their small town of Na'alehu, Hawai’i Island experienced a devastating flash flood around 9pm. The home next to them was washed away completely. They previously used that home to run Aloha Mix, their small food truck (the family business). Thankfully the home was vacant at the time. However, during the flood the family was unable to evacuate thier home that sits only a few feet away from the other home (the business). Once they realized that leaving was not feasible they made the decision to get as high up as they could in the attic. During that time Ronabeth, shared they kept the girls calm by praying, worshiping and reciting scriptures. They could only pray while hearing the gushing waters and loud noises surrounding them.

When the flash flood was over the reality of the catastrophic damage to the whole town was truly devastating. For the family, the personal damages and loss are immeasurable.

Their car port was severely damaged and the flash flood washed away their family SUV. The SUV was found several feet away in the Na'alehu park. The other vehicle was covered by mud and has been declared a total loss. They have been told their home is no longer safe to live in or even enter due to the instability of its foundation.

Koz and Ronabeth recently moved thier small business (Aloha Mix) to a brick and mortar location in Kailua-Kona and have been making the long 1.5 hour drive to and from multiple times a week. They also provide a way for their employees to get to work when needed. Now without reliable transportation the struggle will be working to get to the cafe to open and running.

The whole town of Naalehu and neighboring towns have been devastated.

There is no internet connection in the area. The Ions and all the others affected have to make phone calls and communicate by internet to make claims and work to make living function-able. This isn’t possible unless they drive 2-5 miles out of the town.

I can personally attest to how amazing this family is. They always put others first and are the friends you call and you just know they will be there. I cannot say enough how humbling it is to be their friend.

The funds raised will go towards helping the family get back on their feet . It will help them get a dependable form of transportation and assist in securing a new place that they can call home. This would take an enormous and heavy weight off their shoulders.

Koz and Ronabeth would like me to express how truly thankful they are for all the prayers, support and donations. I am truly confident when I say I know that they will strive to pay all this kindness forward.

We pray blessings upon you and your families.

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged"

Deuteronomy 31:8

"So do not fear, for I am with you;

do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10