Maui wildfire relief effort tips

Ninety-six people are now confirmed dead on the Hawaiian island of Maui following fires that left most of the historic town of Lahaina in ashes.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green is estimating crews will find the remains of 10 to 20 wildfire victims per day for the next 10 days. 

Two of the fires still aren‘t completely contained.

As cellphone service is slowly restored, Green says the number of people missing has dropped from 2,000 to about 1,300.

The Better Business Bureau has some sound advice for anyone who is looking to donate to wildfire relief efforts in Maui.

Unfortunately, that also means that scammers are ready to take advantage.

According to Wes Lafortune, the manager of communications & media with the BBB in southern Alberta, there are some important tips for people hoping to help during this time.

“I’m talking in terms of cash donations, you know, and that’s really the most valuable to charities. Instead of goods, they can use that cash to buy what they need on the ground and support people right there in those communities. You want to donate to established charities that have a track record in the area that you’re going to support.”

For additional tips on ongoing relief efforts, you can visit https://give.org/news/donating-for-maui-wildfire-relief