“These are the kind of times that truly put us to the test,” exclaimed Maui Film Commissioner Tracy Bennett in a gripping interview with FilmmakerFocus today. He shared harrowing details of the wildfires that have ravaged the island, particularly devastating historic Lahaina Town. Despite the destruction, Bennett’s message remains one of strength, hope, and community. “Hawaiians are all about Ohana, family,” he emphasized. “In times like this, their resilience shines through.” Bennett is now calling on the entertainment community, another kind of family, to come together and support Maui in its time of need.
Meanwhile, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green estimates that the cost to rebuild will reach billions of dollars. However, there are already individuals stepping up to help. Amazon Executive Chairman Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez, vice chair of the Bezos Earth Fund, have established a $100 million fund to aid Maui’s recovery. Bezos, who has a home on the island, is determined to help Maui get back on its feet now and in the years to come. Oprah Winfrey, who owns over 2,000 acres on Maui, has also been actively involved, distributing pillows and supplies at a refugee center. A spokesperson for Winfrey stated that she will continue to provide assistance as the most effective funds for short-term and long-term rebuilding become clear. President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for the island, unlocking emergency funds. However, it is evident that much more will be needed.
Bennett has taken the initiative to start a GoFundMe page to support those who have been displaced, lost their homes, or lost loved ones. The proceeds will go to the Hawaii Community Foundation, as well as the Maui Humane Society to aid the displaced and injured animals and pets. Donations can also be made directly to the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong fund.
The full extent of this tragedy is only now becoming apparent. The death toll has risen to 67, with another 12 fatalities confirmed this afternoon. According to a New York Times analysis, approximately 1,900 buildings have been damaged or destroyed. However, this only tells part of the story. “The list of people who are missing is currently between 1,000 and 2,000,” Bennett revealed. He added, “It’s still so early.” The search for victims in the rubble of Lahaina has only just begun, and both locals like Bennett and Governor Green believe that the death toll will unfortunately continue to rise.
As some individuals point fingers at the emergency response and the lack of warning, Bennett shares a startling revelation. “That fire decimated Lahaina in just 17 minutes from the time it started, from my understanding.” If this is accurate, evacuating a town of 13,000 in such a short amount of time seems nearly impossible. Bennett recounted the story of a friend who was packing his car to leave but was overtaken by the flames so quickly that he didn’t even have time to reach his car and escape. He had to run for his life, and fortunately, he survived. Many others resorted to jumping into the ocean for safety. NBC reported that the Coast Guard rescued 14 people, including two children, from the water. It is estimated that around 100 people sought refuge from the flames in the ocean, but tragically, not all of them made it.
