We are certain, like us, your heart goes out to all communities being devastated by the catastrophic wildfires on Maui and the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. The American Cancer Society has activated the Hawaiʻi Cancer Response Fund, a 100% restricted fund to support cancer patients and their families in Hawaiʻi. This fund enables ACS to act quickly to provide critical aid and resources on multiple fronts and will continue to evolve as needed.
In addition to launching the response fund, ACS is also providing support on the ground in the following ways:
- Our Honolulu Hope Lodge and team are standing by to offer free lodging to cancer patients and families in need and have made immediate accommodations available for those displaced by the wildfires. They have already begun welcoming patients displaced due to the wildfire and are providing a safe haven at our Hope Lodge on the island. Our network of more than 30 Hope Lodge locations are prepared to support individuals needing to seek treatment away from home, including those coming from Hawaiʻi.
- ACS deployed dedicated funding to support transport and related services for cancer patients, including transportation, food, and lodging assistance.
- Our National Cancer Information Center (NCIC) and cancer.org will continue to be available 24/7 at 1-800-ACS-2345, for critical cancer-related information, resources, and services.
As of today, we know two of the largest cancer treatment centers in Kahului on Maui are still operational, however, tragically we have learned that a major infusion clinic in Lāhainā was destroyed by the wildfires, thus presenting barriers to cancer care. Other critical issues impacting cancer care on Maui due to this crisis are water contamination, medication, medical support, and transportation. ACS will continue to monitor and provide aid to cancer patients, caregivers, and their families in Hawaiʻi during times of crisis. If you have an interest in supporting the Hawaiʻi Cancer Response Fund you may donate here or contact us to discuss how you and your organization can get involved in these efforts.