At least 93 people have died in the wildfires in Maui, Hawaii centered in Lahaina. But a local brewery is doing what it can to help.
Maui Brewing Company was founded in Lahaina in 2005. When the fire hit, they immediately mobilized to assist fire victims. “Our company was founded to make really good beer that brings people together,” says Garrett Marrero, CEO and co-founder. “Without people, we don’t have a mission. We’ve always supported the people. This is just the most urgent example of it.”
Maui Brewing has set up donation centers at its main brewery in Kihei and its two locations in Waikiki and Kailua on the island of Oahu. Those locations are accepting immediate needs — baby items, clothing, blankets and pillows, tents and batteries — as well as items that will be needed for rebuilding.
Maui Brewing also has two locations in Lahaina — both of which survived the fire — though they are currently closed, given the devastation to the surrounding area. Maui Brewing’s brand new Kaanapali location in Lahaina opened just six days before the fire hit. Although it is closed to the public now, it is serving as a community kitchen serving the people who need it.
Two other Maui breweries, Kohala Brewery and a Lahaina location of Waikiki Brew Co. were both completely destroyed, reports Marrero.
Maui Brewing is requested the public provide monetary assistance to its employees and their families, many of whom lost their homes or have been temporarily displaced, through the TS Restaurants Legacy of Aloha, and to the broader community through the Hawaii Community Foundation/Maui Strong Fund.
Maui Brewing has also started the Kokua Project. “Kokua” is a Hawaiian word meaning selfless help and the Kokua Project will see breweries across America, and around the world, brew a beer with a recipe designed and supplied by Maui Brewing. 100% of proceeds from these beers will go to the Hawaii Community Foundation/Maui Strong Fund. Craft beer lovers should look for these beers in the coming weeks.
“The need doesn’t stop,” says Marrero, despite saying he is beyond exhausted. “We gotta do what we gotta do.”
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