The Rotary Club of Wailuku has successfully secured a $50,000 grant from the Rotary D5000 Foundation Maui Fires Relief Fund. This grant is earmarked to support Piha Wellness and Healing over the upcoming fiscal year. Based on Maui, this nonprofit program offers the services of licensed, experienced, and culturally sensitive mental health providers to individuals and families affected by the wildfires.
The program will be managed by Founder and Clinical Director Michele Navarro Ishiki, with Richard Carr serving as CEO. The funding will facilitate quicker access to therapeutic care, addressing the common issue of 4-6 month waiting periods for mental health services.
By emphasizing culturally sensitive mental health care in the wake of Maui’s wildfires, this initiative aims to equip individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and other harmful behaviors with better coping strategies. The ultimate objective is to alleviate trauma symptoms caused by the destructive wildfires.
This effort exemplifies the collaborative spirit of Rotarians in supporting the recovery of the Lahaina community, highlighting their commitment to providing much-needed assistance to those affected.
