Lahaina family of 5 in need of laulima for holiday season
Nov 18, 2024
HONOLULU (KHON2) -- In our Laulima Giving Program's Adopt-A-Family segment, a partnership between Keiki O Ka Aina and KHON2, we hope to spread the spirit of giving to those less fortunate this holiday season. To kick off, KHON2 wants to highlight a family that is still struggling after the August 2023 Lahaina wildfires.
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Mom, dad and their now 6-year-old son were in Lahaina, separated from their two daughters and grandparents who were on another part of the island.
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They were trapped, trying to find a way out, with smoke so thick they could only see a few feet in front of them. They managed to get in their car and drive to a parking lot where they sat as long as they could.
After two hours, they couldn't wait anymore and dad decided to drive through the flames.
Miraculously, they made it through and eventually headed to Kahului, where they reunited with their daughters and parents.
Like so many, they lost their home and all their possessions, except what was in their car. Since then, they've moved from one shelter to another, about nine times, and they face another move next month.
Their six-year-old son talks openly about that horrific day, but has been resilient and happy, his joy bringing strength and focus on the future.
Their son enjoys playing the keyboard and loves Transformers, Godzilla, Wolverine and much more.
The daughters, ages 11 and 12, love to draw, paint, play Roblox and build Legos. The oldest loves the trampoline park.
Mom and dad said they could use basic dishes, pots, pans, baking supplies, toiletries and even furniture.
Dad made a special request: "something to do with mom," such as dinner and a movie.
In the spirit of Laulima, our many hands working together, let's bring some joy to this family that has been through so much, especially the children, so they can have a very happy holiday season.
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If you would like to help, visit the Laulima Giving Program's website HERE. Select "Adopt A Family" and fill out the submission form with the family code M240062-5.