Tina Andrade, Catholic Charities Hawaii’s new president and CEO

Following the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfires, the need to support Maui first responders was more prevalent than ever.

Recognizing the significant impact crisis response work can have on individuals’ well-being, the Maui Support Center opened at St. Anthony School in Wailuku as a way to provide comprehensive support to those working on the frontlines to help the West Maui community and beyond.

Spearheaded by Catholic Charities Hawai’i, President and CEO Tina Andrade said the organization saw an opportunity to lend a helping hand during a time of need.

“We recognize the stress involved in trying to assist others dealing with this traumatic situation and the significant impact that crisis response work can have on an individual’s well-being,” she said.

Understanding that the aftermath of such a catastrophic event can extend for months and years to follow, Andrade said the healing has just begun.

“The recent Maui wildfire tragedy has taken a heavy toll physically, emotionally and spiritually on so many and continues to do so today,” she said.

From first responders to educators, therapists, disaster case managers and more, Catholic Charities Hawai’i’s Maui Support Center hopes to be a vital resource for public servants.

With a focus on creating a space where first responders can receive self-care, the center aims to sustain the well-being of those dedicated to assisting others.

“Maintaining the mental well-being of wildfire survivors and of those assisting them is an important priority for us, as well as providing other forms of assistance,” she said.

According to a World Health Organization article on mental health in emergencies, almost all people affected by emergencies will experience some form of psychological distress.

Along with Catholic Charities Hawai’i’s Maui Support Center, there are other resources available for Maui’s frontline public servants.

Chris Stankis, public information officer with the Maui County Fire Department, said currently there are several support programs available to the firefighting community.

“The county, the department and the firefighter’s union all have programs. There are others that run completely outside of the system but are geared to the unique needs of the first responder community,” he said.

This new center is one of those programs. It was made possible through a grant from the American Red Cross. Providing both individual and group support sessions within a secure, welcoming environment, the sessions at the center are structured to equip caregivers with essential tools and emotional support, fostering resilience and enabling them to continue their critical work effectively.

Matthew Wells, regional communications director for Hawaii Red Cross, said the organization was grateful for the opportunity to collaborate.

“At the Red Cross, we recognize the importance of helping the helpers. Our grant to establish Catholic Charities Hawai’i’s Maui Support Center does just that,” he said.

To culminate the creation of the venture, a blessing ceremony conducted by the Rev. Monsignor Terrence “Terry” Watanabe was recently held. The center is open to all first responders residing on Maui.

For additional information on how to register for services, contact the Maui Support Center at (808) 743-6141.