US-based grocery retailer The Save Mart Companies is the latest retailer to raise donations for the Hawai’ian Island of Maui following the wildfires in August 2023.
The wildfires started on 8 August and the death toll reached 97 people, with a further 31 declared missing.
The Save Mart Companies launched the Hawaii Wildfires Relief Fundraiser in August at all Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx stores throughout California and Western Nevada.
The in-store fundraiser has raised more than $71,000 and was contributed to by donations from shoppers, store associates, The Save Mart Companies and its CARES Foundation, which reportedly gave $10,000.
Of the funds raised by the retailer, 100% will benefit the Hawai'i Community Foundation's Maui Strong Fund, which provides financial resources to support the immediate and long-term recovery needs of the people and places affected by the wildfires.
The Save Mart Companies COO and senior vice-president Donovan Ford commented: "Our Hawai'i Wildfire Fundraiser resonated in the communities we serve in California and Nevada.
“We hope the donations help in the recovery for those affected by the devastating fires on Maui."
Within the 2,200 structures destroyed, the wildfires claimed stores belonging to both local retailers and global brands, such as Gap, Crocs, Skechers and Calvin Klein.
According to the New York Times, an early estimate projects that $5.5bn will be needed to repair damaged areas in West Maui.
Companies continue to develop technology solutions to prevent wildfires, such as Hitachi’s AI-based solution that detects and manages vegetation near power lines to help authorities make informed decisions.
