In a world that often seems fraught with challenges, it’s inspiring to see how communities can come together to make a difference. Here at DesignAShirt, we are thrilled to announce that, with your unwavering support, we have raised a total of $876.24 to aid the wildfire victims in Maui. Your generosity has made a meaningful impact, and in this blog post, we want to share the story of how we achieved this milestone by fundraising with custom t-shirts, and how you can continue to support this critical cause.
Why Maui Is Important To DesignAShirt
The devastating Maui wildfires left a trail of destruction in their wake, affecting the lives of countless individuals and the beautiful places we hold dear. Witnessing the profound impact of this disaster on our community, we knew we had to take action. Our Campaign Founder, Bianca, has been an integral part of the DesignAShirt team since 2021 and moved to Maui last year. While Bianca herself was fortunate enough to avoid the immediate impact of the wildfire, she understood that her broader community was still contending with its far-reaching ripple effects. With a deep sense of compassion and a drive to make a positive difference, Bianca decided to leverage the power of custom t-shirts, a leading fundraising tool, to support her community during this challenging time.
At DesignAShirt, we proudly stand with Bianca and the resilient people of Maui. We recognize that in the face of adversity, a community’s strength shines brightest. It is this unwavering spirit and determination that has inspired us to join the cause and offer our support. Introducing our “Hope for Maui” t-shirt fundraiser, where your shirt becomes more than just fabric; it becomes a symbol of hope and solidarity. Every purchase you make directly contributes to wildfire relief efforts, and with our zero-profit model, you can rest assured that 100% of the proceeds will be donated to assist those who have endured devastating losses.
We firmly believe that collective efforts can create a lasting impact. In the face of adversity, the resilience of a community is truly remarkable. Together, as proud supporters of the resilient residents of Maui, we invite you to join us in making a meaningful difference. Choose your donor recipient at checkout and let us stand together, shoulder to shoulder, to help rebuild and restore the beautiful island of Maui. Together, we can make a difference.
The Donor Recipients
In times of emergency, selecting the right recipients for donations is paramount to ensure that funds are directed towards those who need them most. At DesignAShirt, we have taken diligent steps to vet our chosen recipients for both meaningful distribution and legitimacy. When you make a donation at checkout, you can rest assured that your contribution will genuinely make a positive impact. Here, we provide insights into each of our selected foundations:
Maui Strong Fund
The Hawai‘i Community Foundation Maui Strong Fund is a trusted organization that focuses on providing financial resources for rapid response and recovery efforts in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that swept through Maui. They work closely with state and county leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community members to understand the evolving priorities in the wake of this crisis.
The funds raised are instrumental in supporting a wide range of critical needs, including shelter, food, financial assistance, and various essential services as identified by their partner organizations on Maui. As of August 15, 2023, this fund has already amassed an impressive $34,168,356, demonstrating the immense support and generosity of the community.
Maui Mutual Aid Fund
The Maui Mutual Aid Fund is a community-driven initiative led by a group of dedicated volunteers. Their mission is to support Maui residents who have been adversely affected by the wildfires. This fund focuses on assisting particularly vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities, elderly residents, and individuals who are uninsured or underinsured.
The volunteers behind this fund create a “needs list” and share it through their social media channels, ensuring that the support they provide is directed to the areas and individuals that need it most. This grassroots approach allows for a swift and impactful response to the crisis, emphasizing community solidarity and assistance.
ASU – Maui Support Fund
In times of disaster, extending a helping hand is paramount, and Arizona State University (ASU) acknowledges the significant efforts made by the people of Hawai‘i and local relief organizations during this challenging period. ASU has established the Maui Support Fund to provide support to members of the Sun Devil community who are facing loss or hardship due to the fires. This support encompasses alumni, students, families of students, faculty, and staff.
What’s noteworthy is that 100% of the contributions made to this fund will be used to provide swift financial resources, including funding for food, shelter, essential goods, and educational services. ASU aims to be a direct resource for the Sun Devil community members impacted by this catastrophe.
The funds raised through this initiative will not only support ASU alumni and students in Hawai‘i but also be directed towards the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, a highly trusted community organization on the islands, to extend aid to the broader community.
In times of crisis, unity and support are essential, and these selected foundations are working diligently to ensure that your donations have a profound and meaningful impact on those affected by the Maui wildfires. Your generosity will make a difference in helping these communities rebuild and recover during these challenging times. By contributing to the Maui Mutual Aid Fund, you are directly assisting those who need it the most, ensuring that no one is left behind during these trying times. Your generosity not only makes an immediate impact but also provides hope for a brighter future for these individuals and families.
DesignAShirt Makes Your Donation Go Further
At DesignAShirt, we understand the importance of transparency and accountability in charitable efforts. That’s why we’re proud to inform you that we are donating all print costs for this campaign. When you make a purchase, your payment covers the cost of the blank t-shirt and shipping, ensuring that every dollar you donate goes directly to the cause of your choice. It’s all thanks to your support that we can proudly declare that 100% of the remainder after covering expenses is donated to the Maui Strong Fund and the Maui Mutual Aid Fund. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, plays a crucial role in providing assistance to those affected by the wildfires in Maui.
About The T-Shirt Design
Ho’oponopono is a traditional Hawaiian practice of forgiveness and healing. The process involves expressing remorse, asking for forgiveness, gratitude, and love. Our Maui-based designer, and campaign founder, Bianca E selected the theme. With support from Maui locals, including her Hawaiian-born fiance Corwyn, the “Ho’oponopono” design, featuring the 150-year-old Banyan tree, was created. Using custom t-shirts to spread awareness is not only effective but also affordable in aiding fundraising efforts. DesignAShirt has committed to a zero-profit model, helping your contribution go even further. With no custom t-shirt or tank top over $20, we’ve made it easy for anyone to participate. Together, we can all take part in Ho’oponopono.
In the face of adversity, we have witnessed the incredible power of community, empathy, and generosity. Together, we have raised $876.24 for wildfire victims in Maui, and this is just the beginning. By choosing to donate at checkout, you are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have been impacted by this disaster. As we move forward, let us continue to rally together, support these vital funds, and bring hope to Maui’s residents during their time of need. Together, we can make a lasting impact and help rebuild the beautiful island of Maui, stronger and more resilient than ever before. Thank you for your unwavering support and for being a part of this incredible journey.