As fires on Maui and Big Island continue to burn, the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) is gearing up to provide support – and calling on members of the logistics community to be on long-term alert for opportunities to do the same.
Effective immediately, the organization has expanded its Disaster Micro-Site (www.alanaid.org/operations/) to include key details about the fires and their related logistics needs. And late yesterday the organization received its first request for logistics assistance – moving communications equipment to support shelter facilities near Lahaina.
“We are heartbroken and devastated for the residents of both islands, especially those who have lost a loved one, a home or – in the case of Lahaina – most of their hometown,” said ALAN Executive Director Kathy Fulton. “Today we are officially channeling that heartbreak into action.
“Although the need for our supply chain assistance for post-fire relief efforts in Hawaiʻi hasn’t been extensive yet, the operative word is yet, because as Hawaiʻi Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke said, the full impact of the fires won’t be known for weeks or months. As assessments are made, we’ll undoubtedly be getting more requests, including many that could come in several weeks or months down the road. That’s why we hope members of the logistics community will visit our Disaster Micro-Site often to view the latest lists of requests – or consider making a pre-offer (https://www.alanaid.org/offerinkind/) of any space, services and equipment they’d be willing to donate to assist with fire relief efforts.”
Fulton also reiterated a request from many members of the non-profit relief community: Please don’t self-deploy to Maui or Big Island – and refrain from participating in product collection drives.
“Although the intention behind these efforts is good, they often create more challenges than they solve, including getting in the way of rescue efforts. So please don’t add to an already difficult situation,” she said. “If you truly wish to help, send funds. Cash donations allow non-profits to buy what they need, when and where they need it. And that will help survivors faster.”
Fueled, in part, by Hurricane Dora’s strong offshore winds, the fires on Maui have claimed 36 lives and destroyed more than 271 structures, many of which were in the historic town of Lahaina.
“This devastating disaster is a good example of just how unpredictable hurricanes and their impacts can be,” said Fulton. “However I hope that – like other recent disasters we’ve been working on – it will also serve as an example of just how generous the logistics community can be, because the donated transportation, warehousing, shipping supplies, forklifts and logistics expertise we provide can truly be game-changers and make a considerable difference for disaster survivors.”
