Assistance from the Government of Japan for the Wildfire Damages in the State of Hawaii

●The following press release was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan on August 16, 2023 (Japan Standard Time):

【Assistance from the Government of Japan for the Wildfire Damages in the State of Hawaii】

• In response to the devastating damage caused by the wildfires in Lahaina, Maui, Japan has decided to provide a total of approximately $2 million of assistance through the American Red Cross and Japan Platform (JPF), as a relief measure for the victims of the disaster.
• Japan will actively provide assistance for the relief of the victims and the earliest possible recovery of the affected areas.

Link to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website（Assistance announcement）

https://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press4e_003291.html

●Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr. Yoshimasa Hayashi announced the assistance from Japan for the Wildfire Damages in Hawaii at the Emergency Press Conference (August 16, 2023, Wednesday, 4:10 PM)

・With regard to the extensive damage from the wildfires in the State of Hawaii, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and pray for the souls of those who have tragically lost their lives.

・The Government of Japan has decided to provide assistance totaling $2 million for the relief of the affected people, channeled through the American Red Cross and the Japan Platform (JPF).

・The $1.5 million allocated to the American Red Cross is expected to be used for on-the-ground needs, such as safe evacuation areas, food, and emotional support for the victims. The additional $500,000 provided through the Japan Platform is planned to be utilized for disaster relief efforts based on local needs, and carried out by members of the Japanese NGO, Japan Platform.

・Japan and Hawaii have enjoyed a long-standing friendly relationship through its ongoing exchanges. In these challenging times, the Government of Japan stands with the people of Hawaii.

Link to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (Original Japanese transcript)