In the wake of the unprecedented wildfires that have devastated Maui, the DRI Foundation has provided a donation to several nonprofit organizations, including the Maui Humane Society.
The Maui Humane Society’s mission is to protect and save the lives of Maui’s animals, accepting all in need, educating the community, and inspiring respect and compassion towards all animals.
As rescue and response efforts continue, the Maui Human Society estimates that nearly 3,000 pets had been lost or displaced by the fires. It has received hundreds of reports on lost pets, and is working to reunite those found with their owners. It has also seen an influx of volunteers and search crews.
“In many ways, we’re hoping to be inundated,” Katie Shannon, Director of Marketing, told The Guardian. “It’s what we hope for, that we are able to receive these animals, rescue these animals, and be able to attend to them.”
In recent successes, seven cats from within the burn zone were rescued by FEMA task force members and transferred to Maui Humane Society via Humane Enforcement officers; another dog, Roman, who had run from the fires and suffered burns, was reunited with his owner thanks to his microchip.
In addition to assisting search and rescue, the society is also providing food, supplies and medical attention for those who have been directly or indirectly affected by the fires. It is also providing kennel and relocation services for residents who have to leave the island.
The DRI Foundation is proud to provide support and vital financial assistance to such non-profit organizations, to aid their missions in communities where they are needed.