AIHA Supports Relief Efforts, Urges Donations to Maui Communities Devastated by Wildfires

FALLS CHURCH, Va. (Aug. 22, 2023)—In response to the devastation caused by wildfires in Maui, AIHA has donated $2,500 to Maui Strong Fund’s ongoing relief efforts on the Hawaiian island. AIHA is also compiling the contact information of occupational and environmental health and safety organizations and professionals that relief organizations can communicate with for advice and assistance.

Since Aug. 8, at least 114 people have died in the Maui wildfires, mostly around the historic town of Lahaina, which is home to more than 12,000 people in addition to being a major tourist destination. The death toll is expected to rise as first responders search the remains of more than 2,000 burned homes and businesses. The hard-hit areas of Lahaina and Upper Kula are also currently under a water advisory, with officials informing residents that they should use only bottled water for drinking and activities such as food preparation.

“As an organization aiming to create healthier workplaces, AIHA is proud to stand in solidarity with the resilient Maui community during this challenging time,” said Lawrence D. Sloan, the CEO of AIHA. “As Maui recovers, workers on the front line must be assured that they have appropriate safeguards in place to protect their health.”

AIHA encourages members and partner organizations to donate to organizations administering relief services for people affected by these wildfires. “Donations to organizations like the Maui Strong Fund, Maui United Way, Maui Food Bank, the American Red Cross, and others can make a lifesaving difference to the people on the ground,” Sloan said.

Visit AIHA’s Wildfire Disaster Recovery Center to obtain free information on wildfire recovery health and safety.

About AIHA

AIHA is the association for scientists and professionals committed to preserving and ensuring occupational and environmental health and safety in the workplace and community. Founded in 1939, we support our members with expertise, networks, comprehensive education programs, and other products and services that help them maintain the highest professional and competency standards. More than half of AIHA's nearly 8,500 members are Certified Industrial Hygienists, and many hold other professional designations. AIHA serves as a resource for those employed across the public and private sectors, as well as to the communities in which they work.