Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 18, 2023) — Today, four trained disaster volunteers from the American Red Cross of Utah landed in Hawaii to begin their deployment providing vital assistance to those affected by the Maui wildfires. Over 300 Red Cross disaster relief workers from across the country are currently on-site, working to support the affected communities.
“Our Utah Red Cross volunteers will join other Red Cross relief workers who are coordinating closely with community and government partners to ensure people have the help they need,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Our Red Cross of Utah team has shown unwavering dedication and I am incredibly proud of their commitment."
The American Red Cross mobilized teams across multiple islands to establish shelters and provide urgent relief to affected communities. The wildfires, which began last Tuesday, have already damaged or destroyed more than 2,200 homes and businesses, claiming at least 110 lives, making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than 100 years. Fueled by an exceptionally dry summer and intensified by winds from a distant hurricane, the fire ravaged the island, including the historic town of Lahaina, Hawaiian officials reported.
Among the Utah volunteers who arrived in Hawaii today are David and Bonnie Kenison from Orem, husband and wife volunteers who have previously deployed six times to various disasters, including Hurricane Ian in Florida. Also joining the mass care, sheltering, and relief operations are veteran volunteers Tina Spencer and Dennis Van Roosendaal, residents of Salt Lake City. They will be joining Red Cross of Utah staffer Adam Whitaker, who deployed last week.
David Kenison emphasized the importance of providing assistance to those affected by disasters, saying, "Every person affected by a disaster deserves help and the chance to rebuild their lives, and as a Red Cross volunteer, I am honored to be part of that recovery process.” He added, “Being part of the Red Cross allows me to bring light to even the darkest moments, and that's why I answer the call to deploy."
Since the wildfires started, the Red Cross, working with local government, has provided over 5,300 overnight shelter stays in 16 emergency shelters on Maui and Oahu. Additionally, more than 32,600 meals and snacks have been distributed to those in need.
"We want to help make sure everyone impacted by the disaster has a safe place to stay, food to eat, critical relief supplies, emotional support and comfort in the face of this devastating fire,” Ruster said. “We have dedicated volunteers like David, Bonnie, Tina and Dennis, who will help make a difference in the lives of those in need."
How can you help the people Hawaii’s wildfires
Make a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
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.
