Volunteers needed on Kauai as Red Cross shifts to long-term hurricane recovery

News admin September 17, 2026 0 Comments

Volunteers needed on Kauai as Red Cross shifts to long-term hurricane recovery

HANAPEPE, Kauaʻi (HawaiiNewsNow) – Volunteers are needed as the American Red Cross continues assisting in recovery efforts on Kauaʻi more than a week after Hurricane Lowell battered the Garden Island, leaving emergency crews and volunteers focused on long-term recovery.

In Hanapepe, utility crews recently restored a downed power pole outside Wong’s Chinese Restaurant and Deli, where a power pole had fallen and completely blocked the highway, making it impassable.

American Red Cross regional CEO Molly Schmidt said relief operations are adjusting as immediate sheltering needs decline and focus turns to sustained relief.

“Initially we opened five shelters with the support of the state and the county,” Schmidt said. “Now, I’m happy to say that need has gone down. The American Red Cross is only operating one shelter at the moment.”

Schmidt noted that downed trees, mud, and debris continue to hinder travel to isolated pockets across the island.

“There’s a lot of damage and particularly in remote areas north, south, all over,” Schmidt said. “A lot of the areas are unreachable. And so we’ve had to go off road. That most important thing is that we’re reaching the community when they need us most.”

Schmidt added that the Red Cross is working with their partners and community members as recovery efforts continue.

Those who need disaster assistance can find resources available from the county at kauairecovers.org.

Residents can also sign up to be Red Cross volunteers across the state.

Schmidt said Kauai needs volunteers to help assist recovery efforts. Those interested in helping sign up, learn more or donate here.

The Red Cross also offers free disaster training, and many of their programs are focused on preparedness and working with different organizations in order to respond and get people the help they need.

“Disaster response doesn’t start just because there’s a storm,” Schmidt said. “We do this 365 days a year, year-round. … We will continue to be here as long as there is a need for us.”