Maui Fire Burns Chair Outside, But Stops Before Shabbos Package

It has been a mere seven days since the flames of destruction tore through the beautiful island of Maui, reducing homes and businesses to smoldering ruins. Rabbi Mendel and Chani Zirkind have undertaken an extraordinary journey to assist their fellow Jewish residents reclaim their lives and rebuild their futures.

The Zirkinds have been working diligently to secure temporary housing for most affected families. “The departure of a large part of the Israeli community of Maui who had homes and businesses here has definitely left a void,” says Rabbi Zirkind.

Despite the turmoil, Zirkind has been a lifeline for those who remain on the island, shuttling them back and forth to salvage treasured possessions from the fire’s aftermath. With personal police escorts, he is able to help Jewish residents seeking to retrieve whatever belongings of theirs that were not destroyed directly from ground zero.

When an Israeli family contacted Zirkind in search of their family members who they had not heard from since the fires, he immediately set out to find them. Upon finding and connecting with this couple he saw that they had been living without water or internet access all week and could not get to the other side of the island. He was able to get them out, help them reconnect with their family in Israel, and get them much-needed assistance and supplies.

Yet, the Zirkinds’ efforts extended beyond material aid, encapsulating the emotional and spiritual needs of the community. Shabbat packages, distributed with heartfelt care, offered a sense of continuity and normalcy amidst the chaos.

“Every week we would deliver over 100 Shabbat packages around the island. We always delivered 27 packages to Lahaina. Unfortunately, there were only 7 homes left on that side of the island we could give to this week. Everyone else has either left the island or is living in other parts of the island now,” says Zirkind.

“We did see something quite amazing last week- in one of the homes to which we delivered our Shabbat package, the family evacuated and we went back this week to get their belongings. We saw that the outside of their home was burnt, but the Shabbat package was perfectly intact on the kitchen counter!”

As the focus shifts towards rebuilding, the Zirkinds harnessed the support of the Jewish Federation of North America, fostering collaborations that offered a glimmer of hope to those who had lost everything. The Zirkinds’ tireless advocacy ensured direct communication with FEMA, guaranteeing that affected individuals were not only aware of available resources but were also able to access them effectively.

“We have so far ordered 20 Mezuzos and 5 pairs of Tfilin to replace those that were destroyed in the fires,” says Zirkind.

Recognizing the financial strain families faced, they facilitated tuition payments and supplied school kits for the many Jewish children starting school this year. The economic disparity that plagues Maui did not deter the Zirkinds’ commitment.

One Israeli man they are helping get back on his feet has a business of purchasing and fixing up cars and selling them. Sadly now everything on his lot has been destroyed.

Yet, amidst the drive for material restoration, the Zirkinds recognized the crucial importance of mental health and well-being. Collaborations with organizations such as Ohel offers virtual havens for those grappling with the emotional toll, providing a roadmap for navigating the path towards healing.

One crucial lesson emerged within this tapestry of recovery: the power of acknowledging vulnerability. In a community marked by humility, the Zirkinds’ support serves as a gentle reminder that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a testament of strength.

As the community charts a course toward rebirth, Rabbi Mendel and Chani Zirkind remain at the helm, guiding Maui’s Jewish community toward a future illuminated by hope and the promise of renewal.

To help partner in their relief efforts, donate here:
https://www.mauikosherfarm.com/fire