On 31 August 2023, Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson announced the People’s Fund of Maui, pledging an initial $10 million to help residents of Lahaina and Kula after the August wildfires. The launch came less than a month after the fires that swept through the island, with the two celebrities inviting the public to contribute to the effort.
Eligibility was limited to adults aged 18 and older whose primary residences had been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable. Those living in both homes and rental units could apply, reflecting the reality of displacement across housing types. Each qualified adult received $1,200 each month for six months, with payments deposited directly into their bank accounts to cover housing, food, medical costs, and other urgent needs.
The fund’s reach expanded rapidly. After the initial commitment, more than 18,000 additional donations poured in, pushing the total disbursed to almost $60 million. In that span, 8,100 residents received the full six payments. The final disbursement was made in February 2024, completing the six‑month program.
Administration was handled by the Entertainment Industry Foundation, which worked closely with local Maui elders and community leaders. This partnership ensured that the relief model respected local customs and addressed the specific challenges faced by Native Hawaiian communities affected by the blazes.
With the fund now depleted, the community will look to state and federal aid for the next phase of recovery. The People’s Fund of Maui remains a landmark example of celebrity‑led, direct‑cash relief that bypassed bureaucratic delays, leaving a lasting impact on thousands of displaced families.