Celebs donating supplies to help devastated Maui

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey is offering a helping hand to Maui residents who have been impacted by the deadly wildfires. And she’s not alone among celebrities expressing their concerns.

The billionaire talk show host, who is a part-time resident of the island, delivered a variety of supplies at a shelter in Wailuku, two days after the fire hit the historic town of Lahaina.

“It’s a little overwhelming … but I’m really so pleased to have so many people … supporting and, you know, people are just bringing what they can and doing what they can,” she told the BBC.

An Instagram video shared by nonprofit organization Kāko’o Haleakalā showed the OWN personality, dressed in sweats and wearing a hat and dark glasses, carrying pillows and giving one to a resident lying on a cot. The account thanked Winfrey “for following through” by also delivering cots and toiletries.

“She even spent some time with the people here. It was very much appreciated,” the caption said.

As the fires broke out, Winfrey and her Hollywood peers spoke out to raise awareness and voice support for Maui residents. “Fast X” actor Jason Momoa recently shared a set of informational photos from environmental non-profit Āina Momona.

“We are devastated and heartbroken for our friends and ‘ohana on Maui who [have] been impacted by the recent wildfires,” Momoa, who is a native of Hawaii, wrote. He also shared a link to resources.

Musician Mick Fleetwood mourned the wildfire destruction, writing on Instagram, “MAUI and The Lahaina community have been my home for several decades.” The Fleetwood Mac rocker owned a waterfront restaurant and bar, Fleetwood’s, that was lost to the flames.

“On behalf of myself and my family I share my heartfelt thoughts and prayers for the people of MAUI,” he continued. “We are committed to supporting the community and those affected by this disaster in the days month[s] and years to come.”

The Hawaii Community Foundation has  already raised at least $3 million for its Maui Strong Fund in 24 hours and is not collecting any fees on gifts to the fund.

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/dhOylUY