United Public Workers launches wildfire relief effort to support Maui families

United Public Workers AFSCME, Local 646, AFL-CIO has launched a Wildfire Relief Effort to collect and distribute supplies to families affected by the devastating wildfires on Maui. 

The public is invited to donate non-perishable items at United Public Workers headquarters across the state on Aug. 11.

United Public Workers is accepting donations of the following items:

• Warm clothing and bedding (socks, shirts, blankets, undergarments, etc.)
• Toiletries (toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, etc.)
• Comfort items (hot water kettles, single-burner stoves, etc.)
• Non-perishable food items (rice, canned goods, microwaveable food items)
• Baby items (diapers, baby whites)
• Water

The public can drop off donations from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the following United Public Workers locations:

• Hawaiʻi Island:  362 East Lanikaula Street, Hilo
• Oʻahu:  1426 North School Street, Honolulu
• Maui:  841 Kolu Street, Wailuku
• Kauaʻi:  2970 Kele Street, Suite 213, Līhuʻe

“It is hearbreaking to see the devastation caused by the wildfires on Maui, and we stand in solidarity with United Public Workers members and families during this difficult time,” said Kalani Werner, United Public Workers AFSCME, Local 646, AFL-CIO State Director. “We will do everything we can to support the Maui community through this crisis and along the road to recovery.” 

United Public Workers members got an early start on the campaign, collecting and donating items starting on Aug. 10. The union is working with other partners to ship the collected items to Maui. The County of Maui will assist with distribution.