Red Cross volunteers Vesta Sung (left) and her daughter Nathalie Sung (right), on vacation in Maui, leapt into action during the island's deadliest wildfire in a century. They were awarded as Hometown Heroes in 2024 for their bravery and selflessness. Photo by Stephanie Grande/American Red Cross.
American Red Cross volunteers Vesta Sung and her daughter, Nathalie, found themselves thrust into action while vacationing on Maui, when the island's deadliest wildfire in a century erupted. Seeking refuge amidst 90 mph wind gusts, they witnessed the fire's ferocity, enduring hours of uncertainty before finding safety at a Red Cross shelter at Maui High School, filled with over 1,200 evacuees.
"I think just knowing that other people needed help, I can’t really stand idly by." said Nathalie.
Without a second thought, the two put their vacation aside; Vesta stepped up as the overall Shelter Manager to help organize the influx of people and their urgent needs. Nathalie, a soon-to-be graduate from Cal Poly Pomona, utilized her Red Cross training to organize the overwhelmed dormitory, setting up bedding, arranging sleeping areas and distributing essential supplies to displaced residents and tourists. Nathalie's leadership was quickly recognized, and she was appointed dormitory lead within days.
Amidst heartbreaking burns and stories of loss and uncertainty, Vesta and Nathalie remained resilient, providing comfort and support to hundreds of people affected by the tragic event. Before returning home to California, mother and daughter were honored by local officials for their hard work and compassion, leaving behind a legacy of service and community.
As trained volunteers, the Sungs were able to quickly transisition from a vacation in paradise to disaster responders. You too can train to step up when emergencies strike by visiting redcross.org/volunteer/become-a-volunteer.html.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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