Oprah Winfrey, renowned talk show host and part-time resident of Maui, has stepped up to assist those impacted by the Hawaii wildfires. As the devastating fires continue to ravage the island, Oprah visited the War Memorial Stadium in Maui, now an evacuation center, to distribute supplies to residents in need.
Filmed during her compassionate efforts, Oprah expressed her feelings to the BBC, stating, “It’s a little overwhelming, you know, before taking a long pause, appearing to be lost for words…But I’m really so pleased to have so many people, you know, supporting, and people are just bringing what they can and doing what they can.”
Understanding the importance of providing practical essentials, Oprah also shared, “So I came earlier, just to see what people needed, and then went shopping because often you make donations of clothes or whatever, and it’s not really what people need. So I actually went to Walmart and Costco and got pillows, shampoo, diapers, sheets, pillowcases.”
Oprah’s hands-on approach involved unpacking pillows and arranging them on makeshift beds for evacuees. She also took time to connect with residents.
A spokesperson for Oprah later revealed, “Oprah went to a local shelter to ask first-hand what was most needed. She then went to Walmart and Costco to shop for the items and brought them back. It is heart-breaking devastation. She will do more, as it becomes clear which funds can be the most helpful for the short-term and long-term rebuilding.”
The fires’ toll has been deeply felt, with Maui County reporting 55 casualties. Efforts are being made to contain the blazes, with progress noted in certain areas.
Hawaii native Jason Momoa, known for his role in “Aquaman,” has also been actively supporting wildfire-stricken communities. He shared devastation visuals on Instagram and encouraged contributions to the Hawaii Community Foundation Maui County Strong Fund.