Maui

With the historic fire-related disaster here in Maui still very much impacting us, many have asked where they can donate money if they want to help. While this article should not be your sole source of research on this issue, we will give our position. This article focuses on financial donations and is not speaking on local goods and services donations.

Ask someone you know from Maui:

Many people are in dire situations as this article is being written. If you know people in the Maui community, please get in touch with them. A direct connection will allow you to get a list of CashApp or Venmo information possibly. This is the most natural and efficient way to donate to disaster relief.

As a downside, many of these donations are likely not tax-deductible.

Hawaii Community Foundation:

Within the State, the most preferred org to donate to are Hawaii Community Foundation and Maui United Way. Hawaii Community Foundation is integrated with many apps and agencies. I stream video content on Twitch, Hawaii Community Foundation has built-in integration with Twitch and many other platforms.

Maui United Way:

As a previous short-term employee of Maui United Way and past volunteer, I can speak to this organization’s credibility. Maui United Way is onsite and will be effective in relief faster than any other organization for short-term relief.

Red Cross:

The American Red Cross often responds to disasters like fires and provides emergency shelter, food, and supplies to those affected. You can donate to the American Red Cross and specify that your donation is for Maui fire relief. The Red Cross is an optimal choice if you already have a relationship with the organization.

Local Churches or Religious Organizations:

Local groups are very effective a delivering relief quickly as they are built into communities in a way that is different from non-government organizations and government organizations. Disasters are a time of great spiritual need, as well as physical need. Churches may also offer information about where your donations will be the most effective.

Maui Food Bank:

Organizations like the Maui Food Bank are crucial in providing food assistance to those affected by disasters. Donating to them could help provide meals to people impacted by the fire.

GoFundMe Campaigns:

Keep an eye on crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe. Many individuals and local organizations set up fundraising campaigns to directly support fire victims.

Local Government and Emergency Services:

Check with local government agencies and emergency services in Maui. They often coordinate relief efforts and can direct you to legitimate local charities that are actively involved in fire relief.

Check for News and Updates:

Stay updated with local news sources, official social media accounts of local government and emergency services, and reputable news websites. They often provide information about relief efforts and how to contribute.

Charity Navigator or Guidestar:

Websites like Charity Navigator and GuideStar offer information on various charities’ financial transparency and effectiveness. You can use these platforms to research charities actively involved in Maui disaster relief.

Remember to do your due diligence before donating to any charity. Look for official websites, check their reputation, and ensure your donations will be used effectively for the intended purpose. Always donate through secure and reputable channels.

Mahalo for Reading

Thank you for considering helping with this historical disaster. Hopefully, you will find the best choice for your donation.

Maui, Hawaii, is renowned for its world-class waves and stunning coastline, offering numerous fantastic bodysurfing spots. Here are some of the best bodysurfing beaches on Maui:

1. Baldwin Beach Park: Baldwin Beach, located in Paia on Maui’s North Shore, is known for its long, sandy shoreline and decent bodysurfing conditions. The beach has more mellow waves than other spots on the island, making it suitable for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed bodysurfing experience.
2. Paia Bay: Just a short walk from Baldwin, this spot is in the middle of Paia town.. The beach offers a mix of left and right-breaking waves, but the currents can be strong, so exercise caution and respect the ocean conditions.
3. D.T. Fleming Beach Park: Situated in West Maui, D.T. Fleming Beach offers consistent waves and is popular among surfers and bodysurfers. The beach has a sandy bottom and a gentle shorebreak, making it suitable for bodysurfers of various skill levels.
4. Hamoa: If you find yourself in Hana, make sure to stop by Hamoa. This spot is more beautiful than most.
5. Big Beach (Makena Beach): Also known as Oneloa Beach, Big Beach is located in Makena State Park. It features a wide sandy beach and powerful shorebreak, which provides excellent bodysurfing opportunities. However, the shorebreak can be intense, so be cautious and aware of your limits. In bigger surf, people have died here.
6. Mokuleia Beach (Slaughterhouse Beach): Located on Maui’s North Shore, Mokuleia Beach is a lesser-known gem for bodysurfing. It features a powerful shorebreak that produces thrilling waves for bodysurfing enthusiasts. Note that the beach has limited facilities, and the currents can be strong, so exercise caution and swim within your capabilities. Of all spots mentioned, I consider this the most dangerous because of the water currents.

Remember, always prioritize safety when bodysurfing. Check the local surf reports, talk to lifeguards, and assess the ocean conditions before entering. Being aware of your abilities and the risks associated with each beach is crucial.

This post is just to talk about some of the problems that are effecting the community here on Maui. For many readers, these points may seem extremely obvious while for others maybe shocking.

The World is Different

Parenting Will Take More Time

Schools are no longer taking children and distance learning is a requirement. This generation will face many problems regarding education. Beyond public education, children have less access to organized sports and similar activities.

Everything points to children being more time-consuming. Family bread-winners will have greater difficulty clocking in hours at the workplace because they will need more time for the little ones. For most, this ultimately means vast changes will need to be made to our lifestyles. Many of us will have to spend less, especially in Maui where most families already work with so little.

Intentional Recreation is More Important than Ever

Obesity was already dangerously high in the United States. The numbers have only become worse since Covid’s arrival. So as an adult who is responsible for children, make sure to have some recreational time with your children. The children need fitness, and studies have shown that exercise help with concentration in studies. Parents need fitness for psychological and psychological benefits.

Screen Time Must Be Limited

It has neve been more tempting to bury ourselves in our smartphones, tablets and computers. With the closure of many restaurants, it’s a great time to take up cooking. Families whom cook their own food tend to be healthier than if they do not cook their own food.

Read paper books. The libraries are still open here on Maui. While the process is slightly different, books are still readily available to the community for free. Furthermore, children who are read to generally do much better academically than children who are not so read to kids.

Other Positive Activities

As stated in our previous article, here are some great possible activities which are available here on Maui.

• Windsurfing
• Surfing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Gardening
• Diving
• Swimming
• Biking
• Running
• and More

Aloha

I hope this article left you feeling at least a little inspired.

Life these days will never be as it once was. Making adjustments can be rough so we wanted to give you some suggestions to help you cope.

Go for a Hike

Maui is still home to some of the most beautiful hikes and walks in the world. Most of these walks are still available to the public. Getting a little Vitamin D is essential for optimal health. Even if you don’t enjoy the exercise and sunlight when you are getting it, you are sure to feel better overall. Think of the outdoor recreation as paying it forward. Dog owners also can take their dogs and get pet owner points too.

Garden

One of Hawaii’s greatest economical downfalls is its reliance on non-Hawaii food sources. Now is a great time to do your part in producing plant resources locally. Gardening can be an enjoyable recreational activity that most find rewarding. I have been helping my mother with her yard and garden. With gyms closed, gardening and landscaping have been my primary source of exercise and are helping to keep me emotionally and mentally balanced.

Jam Some Music

There has never been a better to time finally learn how to play that instrument that you have been wanting to learn your whole life. Pick up a guitar, piano, or ukulele and start strumming away. Get your start by checking out the unlimited amount of online instructional videos. Once you outgrow the videos, maybe set up some video calls with an actual music teacher. With musicians losing lots of work recently, many professional musicians have turned to online music lessons and online music performances. Not only can you learn how to play, but you are helping musicians transition in their greatest time of need.

Surf and Dive

Since the beaches are back open in Hawaii, it’s a great time to get back in the water. Even if your local public pool is closed, you can always swim in the ocean. Of course, safety is paramount so please do not take any unnecessary risks. If you have any questions about the conditions make sure to check in with a local lifeguard. Ocean novices, please only use beaches with active lifeguards on duty.

Don’t Forget to Zoom

Just because you can’t physically be around your friends, doesn’t mean you should never see their faces. Learn to use Zoom or equivalent software. Many have used social distancing as an opportunity to connect with old friends from all over the world.

Mahalo for Reading

Thanks for checking out our website. I hope you enjoyed the content. Aloha.

While your car takes a vacation to the autobody shop for repairs, it is a good time to self refuel and try the local cafes that beautiful Maui has to offer! We have included the three best coffee shops in Maui all across the island if you are feeling particularly adventurous: from Lahaina to Kula. The island of Maui is well known for being a magical place. What locals and tourists alike often forget is that the island also produces some of the most superior and delicious coffee across the globe. Out of the entire United States, Hawaii is the only state where coffee is grown and sold for general consumers. So why not skip the Starbucks and treat yourself to a more imaginative coffee experience.

Akamai Coffee Company

First up is Akamai Coffee Company. The cafe is located in Kihei, in addition to their drive-through location Kahului next to The Home Depot. Akamai Coffee Company notably offers 100% Maui coffee that is locally grown and roasted. This includes the award-winning “Maui Mokka” which won first place at the Hawaii Coffee Association cupping competition in 2014. The greenery and succulents, curated soundtrack, distressed woods, as well as painted motifs bring life to the adorable cafe. Guests at Akamai also seem to love the hanging seats at the cafe. If you are looking for a creamy smooth coffee, try the Iced Honeybee!

Paia Bay Coffee & Bar

Next on our list is Paia Bay Coffee & Bar, where its location is in the name! Just like Paia town, this restaurant/cafe offers positive, colorful, and relaxing vibes. What is unique about this coffee spot is that they offer great food, coffee, and service in a tropical garden and make a point to emphasize an environmentally-friendly venue. Paia Bay Coffee & Bar was certified as a “Platinum Ocean Friendly Restaurant” by Surf Rider Foundation for its locally sourced and organic ingredients, as well as biodegradable products. The location gifts its guests with not only amazing coffee and a strong internet connection, but community events like live music, game nights, art shows, and meetups. You will be tucked away in a secluded bohemian-style oasis here at Paia Bay Coffee & Bar: a perfect primer for enjoying the Road to Hana after you grab your car. 

Grandma’s Coffeehouse

Lastly, Grandma’s Coffeehouse in Kula is a must-visit for coffee connoisseurs. Grandma began her established legacy in 1918 when she first started roasting and blending Maui Organic Coffee. Her house became the go-to place for a cup of Joe and “talking story.” About four generations down the line, and today the family who runs Grandma’s Coffeehouse is continuing her famous tradition. The same strains of Arabica are used with the best practices learned by the grandparents for processing and growing on the island. A home-made touch goes into every bean. The coffee beans are picked by hand off the slopes of Haleakala and pulped, dried, hulled, and roasted right on location. You are truly getting a “taste of Maui.” Once you fill up on delicious coffee and the iconic eggs benedict, you can easily enjoy the lavender farm in the same area to complete your relaxing and re-energizing day.

Thank you for reading.

Let us know where you like to go to get some coffee in the comments.