In the heart of the Pacific, the Hawaiian Islands are known for their breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and their aloha spirit.
Akahai - kindness, to be expressed with tenderness;
Lōkahi - unity, to be expressed with harmony;
ʻOluʻolu - agreeable, to be expressed with pleasantness;
Haʻahaʻa - humility, to be expressed with modesty;
Ahonui - patience, to be expressed with perseverance.
Growing up on the picturesque island of Kauaʻi, these values have always held a special place in my heart. During this challenging time for the Maui and the Hawai'i community, I am reminded of the power of aloha and extend Boogs & Boop’s support to those affected by the recent bout of wildfires. Unfavorable conditions, characterized by unnaturally dry terrain and the forceful winds generated by Hurricane Dora, fueled the rapid spread of these fires. Both Maui and the Big Island currently bear the burden of six active wildfires.
As of Friday, a combined total of 2,200 buildings and various structures across Maui have suffered damage or have been completely destroyed. Additionally, a total of 2,170 acres of land have been consumed by the fires. The impact on the former royal capital city of Lahaina is particularly heart-wrenching—lives lost and thousands of locals and pets bearing physical and emotional scars of the event. The once-proud structures—homes, schools, and historical landmarks that symbolized the vibrant history of the Hawaiian Kingdom's capital—are now reduced to ruins. The Lahaina blaze is now known as the deadliest in modern U.S. history with the death toll continuing to rise.
Maui’s Displaced Pets
With the Maui Humane Society already operating at full capacity prior to the fires, the staff took to social media, issuing an urgent plea for donations and immediate foster care assistance. This measure aimed to free up space within the shelter and secure essential resources. Anticipating an influx of hundreds of animals—some burned, others lost during evacuations, and many requiring critical care due to smoke inhalation—the Maui Humane Society is gearing up for the challenges ahead. While fires continue to rage on the island, a comprehensive assessment of the damage remains pending. Yet, the allocation of funds is clear: they will be dedicated to performing life-saving medical interventions for injured pets and procuring supplies for families who have tragically lost their homes and beloved pets in the blaze.
Support Through Style
As a proud Native Hawaiian and owner of Boogs & Boop, I am taking action. Boogs & Boop has fulfilled its quarterly Boops for Good commitment by extending financial support to the Maui Humane Society via an Instagram fundraiser. The fundraiser is currently live on the @boogsboop profile and will live in our bio for 30 days. During this time, we will continue to share the fundraiser in posts, in stories, and in email.
In addition, we have chosen the Summer Color Block Harness - Surfrider Blue as a symbol of making waves by spreading aloha; it’s a beacon of hope and resilience. With 25% of the proceeds from each harness purchase through August donated directly to the Maui Humane Society, we can collectively make a difference. This initiative not only helps provide for the needs of those impacted by the fires but also stands as a testament to the power of unity and the spirit of aloha.
Spreading the Aloha
Through our contributions to the Maui Humane Society, we embody aloha far beyond the Hawaiian shores. Every Surfrider Blue harness purchased is a statement that says, "We stand together, no matter the distance." It's a way to spread the true essence of aloha, proving that compassion knows no bounds.
In the face of adversity, the spirit of aloha prevails. If you find yourself in a position to contribute, I humbly ask that you malama (take care) through donation or purchase. If you do not have the means, consider lending your voice by sharing, shedding light on this somber event and rallying support. Every act, no matter how small, will make a difference in helping Maui to begin its healing process.