‘So unbelievable’: Molokai flood victim helps others recover

MOLOKAI (HawaiiNewsNow) – During the second Kona Low storm, Molokai resident Maka McGuire recalled waking up early in the morning to floodwaters rushing beneath her post-and-pier home.

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“I’ve never seen it that bad before. It was never expected for the floods to get that bad,” McGuire shared.

Thankfully, McGuire’s Kaunakakai home was spared, but many valuables in two storage units on her property were ruined.

“We live in a tiny home, so everything that is not used on the daily is put in the storage. We also have our own catering business, which everything is held in our storage,” McGuire added, saying she and her family lost their refrigerator, washer, generators, and other costly supplies.

McGuire then sought help from nonprofit organization Molokaʻi Cares.

“It’s just so unbelievable, the help that has been sent to us during this time of need,” McGuire said.

After receiving much-needed assistance, McGuire wanted to give back to others experiencing similar struggles, so she became a volunteer with Molokaʻi Cares.

McGuire is now a disaster case manager with nonprofit Global Empowerment Mission, or GEM.

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“It feels good, especially because we’re from Molokai. Molokai knows everyone. When I call them, they already know who I am. They know there’s a connection, there’s a trust,” McGuire said.

Because she can relate to those impacted, McGuire said they are more receptive to her, especially those who do not have internet or social media and are not aware of available resources.

“They’re typically not open to it, but because they know I was also a victim and I did receive needed supplies, they’re open to going out to get the help,” McGuire added.

McGuire and other disaster relief personnel are reminding flood victims that the deadline to apply for FEMA’s individual assistance is June 14.

“Take advantage of the resources that we have. Governor Green, Mayor Bissen have been very active in ensuring that all those that have been impacted get taken cared of, and get the help that is necessary for them to recover,” said Lahela Aiwohi of Ola Maui, which is partnering with GEM.

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