In the wake of Hawaii’s tragic wildfires that left Maui scarred and its communities shattered, media mogul Oprah Winfrey has stepped forward with a powerful promise of support. As flames raged, lives were upended, and the town of Lahaina was reduced to ruins, Oprah, a part-time resident of the island, stood alongside survivors, lending her compassion and strength.

Winfrey has pledged a “major donation” to aid in the rebuilding of Maui after the relentless wildfires wreaked havoc on the island. With her own residence situated on this picturesque paradise, Oprah intimately understands the beauty, culture, and resilience of Maui and its people. This personal connection has fueled her determination to provide substantial assistance and comfort during this trying time.

In a video she posted on Instagram, Oprah said, “You know what this week as taught me – when you don’t know what to do, you do whatever you can … I went to visit one of the big shelters here at the War Memorial and asked people what it is they needed and then went shopping for some things some basic things like towels and sheets and shampoo and other necessities.”

“And at some point I will make a major donation after all the smoke and the ashes have settled here and we figure out what the rebuilding is going to look like. This is going to be a long and difficult process but spending time at the shelter I have met so many incredible people…”

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She continued, “after all the camera crews are gone.” Oprah went on to say, “I’ve seen so many families who are sharing a cot, an air mattress and have nothing else left to their names but they are so grateful just to have each other.”

“And there’s such an incredible spirit going on in this entire community people helping other people. And I know that long after all the camera crews are gone and the rest of the world has moved on, the rebuilding will just begin. And Hawaiians are just a strong, cultural people and a family-loving people and with the help and support you’re going to see a lot of phoenix stories rising from the ashes here.”