The Maui wildfires left their mark on Upcountry, Maui, destroying 16 homes in Kula and three in Olinda. In a compassionate response, the Upcountry and Catholic communities have rallied to help impacted families and created the St. Joseph Church Emergency Kōkua Center. Although initially established to help Upcountry residents impacted by the wildfires, the center also helps displaced Lahaina residents who lost homes, jobs, belongings and more.

Donated items that can be picked up:

• Non-perishable food
• Baby: formula, wipes, diapers, clothes, toys, strollers and car seats.
• NEW clothing infant-4x
• NEW and gently used pillows, blankets, sheets, pillowcases, bed linen, towels
• NEW hygiene and household items such as silverware, pots, pans, plates, dishes, cups and serving utensils.
• NEW school supplies
• NEW rubber slippers
• Paper towels, toilet paper

Those in need can also receive cases of water, nonperishable foods and packaged snacks.

Delivery services:

The Center also has a delivery service for those in need but are unable to drive to St. Joseph School at 1294 Makawao Avenue. (Drive to the top of the road.)

For deliveries, call (808) 354-0971. Deliveries are provided by Epic Ministries, a Catholic Young Adult Ministry.

The Center has worked collaboratively with Upcountry Catholic Churches & Community, Upcountry Strong, Sugar Beach Events, Maui Rapid Response, Brown Cross Hui, UH Maui College, Sacred Hearts of Lahaina and more.

Emergency Kokua is expected to continue as long as there are community needs.

In the face of ongoing challenges, the center remains steadfast, extending an invitation for more volunteers to join the cause and help meet the ever-growing needs of the community.

For more information, email sjckokua@gmail.com.