Maui Secures $2 Billion in Federal Funds for Vital Wildfire Recovery Efforts

In a significant step forward for the recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires that swept through Maui in 2023, the County of Maui has been allocated more than $2 billion in federal disaster recovery funding. Mayor Richard Bissen announced that the county will receive approximately $1.6 billion designated for housing through the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, along with an additional estimated $480 million aimed at bolstering economic development, small business loans, and improving water infrastructure. The approval of this funding came after the U.S. Congress voted in favor of the allocation late last week, a move that underscores the federal government's commitment to assisting communities affected by natural disasters. The funding, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is set to play a crucial role in Maui’s rebuilding efforts, addressing the urgent needs of those whose lives were turned upside down by the wildfires. Mayor Bissen expressed gratitude for the federal support, emphasizing its importance in allowing the community to embark on the long journey of recovery. “We are profoundly grateful for this vital disaster relief, which will allow us to begin the critical work of rebuilding and fortifying our community after the worst wildfires this nation has seen in a century,” he stated. This funding not only aims to assist the most vulnerable survivors but also seeks to invest in initiatives that will enhance Maui's resilience against future disasters. In his address, the Mayor also extended thanks to U.S. Senator Brian Schatz for his unwavering support in securing these funds, along with all of Hawaii's Congressional leaders who have advocated on behalf of Maui's wildfire survivors. “This funding is a lifeline for our community, and I am deeply grateful to Senator Schatz and all of our Congressional leaders for their unwavering support,” he added. To ensure that the funds are managed effectively, the County of Maui has established a CDBG-DR Program Office within the Department of Management's Office of Recovery. This initiative aims to streamline the implementation of the recovery efforts. The Office, under the leadership of incoming Administrator John Smith, is committed to collaborating with state, federal, and local partners to ensure a comprehensive approach to recovery. Smith highlighted the County’s dedication to building a stronger and more resilient Maui for all residents, particularly the wildfire survivors. Maui residents and local stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about the recovery programs and to engage in public discussions about the rollout of these funds. More information can be found on the dedicated recovery website, www.mauirecovers.org/cdbgdr, which aims to keep the community updated on the progress and opportunities related to the recovery efforts. The CDBG-DR program plays a pivotal role in providing vital funding for housing, infrastructure, and economic revitalization initiatives, focusing on fostering long-term recovery and resilience in communities affected by federally declared disasters. With these new funds, Maui County is poised to make significant strides in rebuilding the lives and livelihoods of those impacted by the wildfires, setting a foundation for a more resilient future.