Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have established a fundraiser to help Maui residents who have been affected by the terrible wildfires. According to TODAY, the duo stated that the money received through the People’s Fund of Maui will be distributed directly to those affected by the wildfires.
In addition, Winfrey and the Bay Watch star made a $10 million commitment to the People’s Fund of Maui. The billionaire media magnate owns a home in Maui, and Johnson spent part of his youth there.
“Collaborating closely with an esteemed advisory board and support from the local community and respected elders, this new fund will serve as a bridge to provide cash directly to the families and individuals affected so that they can personally determine how best to use the funds for themselves,” a statement announcing the campaign said.
The fund intends to give $1,200 per month to any citizen over the age of 18 who was affected and displaced by the wildfires that ravaged the island’s Lahaina and Kula towns. This is to assist them in reassembling their life.
“I have been meeting with people throughout the community that were impacted by the fires over the last few weeks, asking what they most needed and how I could be of service,” Winfrey said.
“The main thing I’ve been hearing is their concern about how to move forward under the immense financial burden. The community has come together in so many wonderful ways, and my intention is to support those impacted as they determine what rebuilding looks like for them.”
The deadly flames in Maui began in early August and have subsequently been regarded as the deadliest wildfire in modern American history, according to TODAY. So far, more than 100 individuals have been reported dead as a result of the wildfires.
“As people around the world watched the catastrophic loss and devastation caused by the Maui wildfires, they also witnessed the great spirit and resilience of our Polynesian culture and the tremendous strength of the people of Maui. Even in the most difficult of times, the people of Maui come together, and we rise — that’s what makes us stronger,” Johnson, 51, said in the statement.
“We are beyond grateful to be working alongside esteemed community leaders of Maui to launch the People’s Fund of Maui,” he added. “These leaders are offering their guidance to ensure our fund can put money directly in the hands of those individuals most affected.
“To all who have already offered your help, thank you for your support and for those wanting to help now, your prayers and resources are a welcome assistance for those displaced within the Maui community.”
Johnson and Winfrey also spoke about the campaign in a video. “You want to take care of the greatest need of the people and that’s giving them money,” Johnson said in the video.
“We want to have this fund go for as long as you, America, choose to help us with this fund,” Winfrey also said.
“And our goal is to be able to give people money regularly for at least the next six months so that they will be able to make decisions for themselves and be able to have some sense of value for what they can bring to themselves and to their families. We will continue the fund for as long as you help us continue the fund.”
Residents can apply for the funds via the People’s Fund of Maui’s website.