Hawaii Floods: 130 Volunteers Sheltering Thousands

When more than a foot of rain slammed into Hawaiian communities this March, homes were ripped from their foundations and hundreds of people needed water rescues. But as the floodwaters rose, so did an army of helpers ready to serve.

The American Red Cross mobilized 130 disaster-trained volunteers to respond to the crisis caused by a series of Kona Low storms. Most of these volunteers came from the local area, stepping up when their neighbors needed them most.

Over two weeks, these teams have sheltered 565 people across 18 locations, providing hot meals, phone charging stations, and emotional support. The shelters welcome everyone who needs help, no questions asked and no identification required.

The flooding damaged roads, forced the evacuation of a hospital, and even threatened Lahaina neighborhoods still recovering from the devastating 2023 wildfire. As the storms finally move out, volunteers are shifting to damage assessment and distributing emergency supplies.

The Ripple Effect

The response shows how prepared communities can turn disaster into collective action. Volunteers with no prior experience are being rapidly trained to join shelter operations, proving that ordinary people can make extraordinary differences when crisis hits.

Anyone in Hawaii can help immediately by calling 808-734-2101 ext. 4 to volunteer for sheltering and community care. People outside Hawaii can donate to Red Cross Disaster Relief at redcross.org or by texting REDCROSS to 90999.

The shelters remain open not just for overnight stays but for anyone who needs a meal, a charging port, or just a moment of comfort. Pets and service animals are welcome too, with volunteers working with local partners to ensure every family member has a safe place.

As cleanup begins and families assess the damage to their homes, these volunteers will keep showing up, proving that the best response to natural disaster is human kindness multiplied.