Devastating wildfire on the island of Maui in Hawaii has resulted in numerous deaths and displaced persons, and causing extensive damage to infrastructure and losses of billions of dollars. In order to assist with reconstruction and express its staunch friendship with the United States, the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has pledged US$500,000 on August 22, 2023 to help the Hawaii state government and victims on Maui with relief and reconstruction.
Meanwhile, TECO in Honolulu, an official mission embraces humanitarian diplomacy to strengthen ties between Taiwan and the state of Hawaii, also initiated and coordinated a fundraising campaign among the communities of Taiwanese Americans and Chinese from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Within a month, this campaign has raised US$155,260 as of August 31, 2023. The proceeds will be donated to nonprofits like Hawaii Community Foundation, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Hawaii Rotary Club, Fo Guang Shan Hawaii, and Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation based on Hawaii, before sending funds directly to the people of Maui for the use of their needs.
The participated organizations include Taiwanese Association of America Hawaii Chapter, Taiwanese Presbyterian Church in Hawaii, Association of Chinese from Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao, Global Federation of Chinese Business Women of Hawaii Chapter, Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of Honolulu, North America Taiwanese Women's Association-Hawaii Chapter, Hawaii Chinese Culture Center, Forshang World Foundation, Taiwan Hakka Association of Hawaii, Formosan Association for Public Affairs-Hawaii Chapter, North American Taiwanese Medical Association-Hawaii Chapter, and Hawaii Taiwanese Center.
As a friend in need, Taiwan is proudly extending a helping hand to Maui following the deadliest natural disaster in Hawaii’s history, and will continue demonstrating the spirit of “Taiwan Can Help, and Taiwan is Helping！”. Through this joint fundraising, it shows that the people of Maui is not alone and will rebuild and return to life as usual and normal as soon as possible. (E)
