Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson Extend $10M Aid to Maui Fire Victims and Displaced Residents

The devastating wildfires that swept through Maui earlier this month have left many people homeless, traumatized and in need of support. Fortunately, two of the most influential celebrities in the world have stepped up to help them rebuild their lives. Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson, who both have ties to the Hawaiian island, have launched a relief fund with an initial donation of $10 million. The fund, called the People’s Fund of Maui, will provide direct cash assistance to those who lost their primary residence in the fires.

How the fund works

The People’s Fund of Maui is a fund within the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports charitable initiatives in the entertainment industry. The fund is guided by community elders, leaders and residents who have been affected by the fires. They will ensure that the money goes directly to the people who need it most, without any bureaucracy or delay.

According to the fund’s website, anyone over the age of 18 who lost their primary residence in the fires, including renters and excluding property owners who do not reside in the residence, is eligible to receive $1,200 a month for up to six months. The fund also plans to support local organizations that are providing essential services and resources to the fire victims.

The fund is open to public donations, and anyone who wants to contribute can do so through its website or by texting MAUI to 707070. The fund’s goal is to raise at least $20 million to help as many people as possible.

Why Oprah and Dwayne decided to help

Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson are not strangers to Maui. Winfrey has owned property on the island for 15 years, and Johnson has Samoan heritage and spent part of his childhood in Honolulu. They both have a deep connection and love for the Hawaiian culture and people.

They were both deeply moved by the tragedy that struck Maui on August 4th, when a fast-moving fire ignited by a downed power line burned more than 14,000 acres of land and destroyed at least 115 homes. The fire also threatened several celebrity properties, including Winfrey’s own ranch.

Winfrey was seen earlier this month at an evacuation center in Maui handing out supplies and comforting the evacuees. She told the BBC that she was overwhelmed by the situation but happy to be able to help. She also said that she was inspired by Dolly Parton, who had given money to her community after a wildfire in Tennessee in 2016.

Johnson also expressed his concern and sympathy for the people of Maui on social media. He said that he was heartbroken by the loss and devastation caused by the fire, but also proud of the spirit and resilience of the Polynesian culture and the strength of the people of Maui. He said that he wanted to work with Winfrey and esteemed community leaders to launch a fund that would put money directly in the hands of those affected.

How the fund will make a difference

The People’s Fund of Maui is not only a generous gesture from two celebrities, but also a meaningful way to empower and support the fire victims. By providing direct cash assistance, the fund will allow them to make their own decisions about how to rebuild their lives according to their needs and preferences. The fund will also help them cope with the financial burden and stress that comes with losing everything they own.

The fund will also boost the local economy and community by supporting local businesses and organizations that are providing vital services and resources to the fire victims. The fund will help them continue their work and expand their reach.

The fund will also show solidarity and compassion to the people of Maui, who have been through a lot in recent years due to natural disasters, COVID-19 pandemic and tourism decline. The fund will let them know that they are not alone, and that they have friends and allies who care about them and want to help them.

The People’s Fund of Maui is a shining example of how celebrities can use their fame and fortune for good causes, and how communities can come together in times of crisis. It is a testament to the generosity, kindness and aloha spirit of Oprah Winfrey, Dwayne Johnson and everyone who contributes to it.