Maui Wildfire Victims Receive Kindness from Boyd Gaming and Nevada Firefighters
Las Vegas has shown its caring nature after the severe damage caused by Maui's wildfire this week.
Various organizations such as Boyd Gaming, firefighters from Southern Nevada, American Red Cross volunteers, and ex-Hawaii residents settled in Nevada have come together to address the urgent situation.
The magnitude of the disaster is significant, with 55 fatalities and numerous injuries in Maui. Lahaina City experienced a massive fire, leaving many without power and staying in temporary shelters.
This week, Boyd Gaming, Vacations Hawaii, and The California Hotel & Casino (The Cal) announced they will contribute $100,000 to the American Red Cross for relief efforts. The public can donate through the Boyd website as well.
"Our hearts and prayers are with our Hawaiian family. Boyd Gaming, Vacations Hawaii, and The Cal will provide $100,000 to the American Red Cross for Maui's aid. We invite you to join us in assisting Maui during this challenging time. To donate, visit https://t.co/epNOGJaK3z" the California Hotel & Casino tweeted.
In addition, Barb Kramer, an American Red Cross of Northern Nevada disaster relief volunteer, also traveled to Hawaii this Friday as per Reno TV station KRNV.
Kramer, who has helped in disaster relief efforts more than 20 times over a decade, will stay in Maui for at least three weeks.
Firefighters Show Support
Firefighters from Las Vegas are also lending a helping hand.
Clark County Fire Department Chief John Steinbeck told Las Vegas TV station KLAS that Las Vegas is considered the ninth island due to the close bond between Hawaii and Southern Nevada.
He added, "We have a kinship with the people of Hawaii, and we're prepared to send as many resources as needed."
On Monday, a five-person team and two search and rescue dogs from Nevada Task Force 1 (NV-TF1) left for Hawaii. Clark County Fire Department, Las Vegas Fire and Rescue, Henderson Fire Department, and North Las Vegas Fire Department personnel make up the task force.
Additionally, a 45-person team consisting of firefighters and civilians was deployed. This team includes a doctor and left Las Vegas's Harry Reid International Airport at 11:45 a.m. on Friday. They'll join other volunteers on the island, coordinated by FEMA.
"On behalf of NV-TF1, we would like to underscore our gratitude and thank you for your support and readiness to serve," Deputy Fire Chief Billy Samuels of the Clark County Fire Department said in a statement.
Las Vegas residents with personal ties to Hawaii have also been impacted by the tragedy.
"Things will never be the same," Jai Alboro, a Lahaina native currently residing in Las Vegas, told KLAS.
"You can’t tell where everyone is. You don't know if everyone is safe." Alboro further lamented. "It's really sad and depressing. You don't know what's happening."
Alboro revealed that a close relative of his perished in the wildfire.
"My papa passed away. He lived right next to the Shell gas station where we all grew up," Pico Alboro said to KLAS about his grandfather who lived near the place they all used to visit.
Food Collection
In Las Vegas, a food and supplies collection initiative is underway.
The items will be dropped off at Ninth Island Kava Lounge in Las Vegas, located at 5447 Rainbow Boulevard.
The food and supplies will be shipped to Maui starting on Sunday.
The organizers encourage all locals in the region to lend a hand in the drive.
Read also:
- Schalke nears massive changes
- Immediately renew Terzic's contract.
- Gulacsi sets a challenge for the upcoming million-man group.
- The St. Pauli manager held the injured player.
Source: www.casino.org
