September 6, 2023 (Hawaii, USA) – Nearly one month after the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century, the residents of Lahaina, Maui are still struggling to return to normal. To help aid with relief efforts, members of the World Mission Society Church of God in Hawaii partnered with the Hawaii Food Bank to provide food for the wildfire victims in need.
By God’s grace, a total of 25 boxes of food were packaged and delivered to the food bank’s warehouse. Each box contained items such as canned goods and non-perishable foods collected by the members, along with the message on each box, “You are not alone. Cheer up!” Members not only wanted to deliver food to the survivors but also the message of hope and love.
“Just as Christ teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves, I felt that this was a great opportunity to convey the love of God the Father and God the Mother to all those suffering from this tragedy. Many people voiced how sad the situation was, but many did make a plan to actually help those who were in need. I am thankful to have been able to participate in taking action for those who truly need a helping hand during this time,” volunteer Melissa S. stated.
Since residents and businesses alike were destroyed in the fire, it has been hard for Lahaina residents, who have lost their homes and jobs, to support themselves. As a mother provides food and gives care to her children, the members of the Church of God eagerly wanted to deliver the love of Heavenly Mother to the displaced residents.
Hawaii Food Bank-Director of Strategic Giving, Cait Dale, was wowed by the Church’s donation and the amount collected in such a short period of time. “What you guys are doing is amazing and such a great help,” Dale expressed. Another fellow worker, Ronnie Bartenstein, Community Food Drive and Donor Services Coordinator, stated, “Your efforts make a huge difference in the fight against hunger in Hawaii. We truly appreciate your support. It’s been a pleasure working with you and we hope for your continued support in the future.”
Like the good Samaritan, it is the goal of the Church of God to serve friends, family, and neighbors with the love of God. Hoping for a swift recovery to all of our extended family in Maui who were affected by the wildfires, we will continue to make efforts to give love, support, and comfort.
