Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Aug. 11, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada today announced Las Vegas-headquartered Boyd Gaming has donated $100,000 to support ongoing disaster relief efforts for victims of the devastating wildfire on Maui.
“This donation will help provide shelter, food and health services to the many Maui residents affected by the wildfires,” said Rachel Flanigan, American Red Cross of Southern Nevada Executive Director. “The journey to recovery will be long and depends on this type of support and generosity.”
The wildfires, which began on Tuesday, have already devastated hundreds of homes and businesses, claiming at least 55 lives, making it one of the deadliest fires in recent U.S. history. Fueled by an exceptionally dry summer and intensified by winds from a distant hurricane, the fire has ravaged the island, including the historic town of Lahaina, leaving thousands of residents and tourists in need immediate assistance.
In response to this urgent situation, Boyd Gaming has stepped forward to provide substantial support to the American Red Cross in its efforts to provide aid and relief to those affected by the disaster. “For nearly 50 years, Boyd Gaming has had a close relationship with the people of Hawai’i, and our hearts and our prayers are with our Maui friends following this horrible tragedy,” said Steve Thompson, Executive Vice President of Operations for Boyd Gaming. “Boyd is honored to support the Red Cross’ efforts to provide relief and support during Hawai’i’s time of need, and we encourage everyone across ‘The Ninth Island’ to join us in helping our Ohana on Maui.”
Boyd Gaming has a strong history of giving back to the communities in which it operates. The company's donation will directly contribute to providing shelter, food, relief supplies, emotional support and other essential services to those affected by the wildfires. “As we continue to see these devastating impacts each year, we’re grateful for Boyd Gaming’s generosity and partnership as we work to expand our capacity and services to help people in times of great need,” Flanigan said.
Boyd Gaming’s relationship with the people of Hawai’i began when founder Sam Boyd lived and worked on Oahu and the Big Island in the late 1930s. In 1975, Sam and his son Bill Boyd opened the California Hotel & Casino, nicknamed “The Cal,” and marketed the property directly to Hawaiian tourists in Las Vegas. Boyd’s strong relationship with the Hawai’i market continues to this day, with Hawaiian guests accounting for a majority of customers at Boyd’s three properties in downtown Las Vegas.
Help people affected by disasters
Donations to American Red Cross Disaster Relief make a difference, no matter the amount. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from disasters big and small. To donate, visit redcross.org/donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.