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ABOUT US

Leis for Lahaina began as a unified effort to support the Lahaina community following the tragic fires of August 8th.

 

Thousands of ti leaves have been donated and collected and hundreds of leis have been assembled by students, faculty and parents at Seabury Hall on Maui. These ti leaves represented the desire to offer heartfelt support by each student to the victims and communities affected by the fires. The leis were included in a remembrance ceremony on September 8th. Following the ceremony, leis were presented to first responders in the affected areas of Lahaina, Napili, Makawao and the Kula fire stations. 

First Responders presented with Lei

Beginning with this collective effort, Leis for Lahaina has branched out to generate fundraising "Leis for Lahaina Luaus" as well as the offering of leis (fresh and artificial) in connection with donations across the country. Funds generated go to organizations including: Maui Pono, Maui Strong Fund and People's Fund of Maui.

Picking ti leaves for leis, Maui
Collecting ti leaves for leis

The goal of Leis for Lahaina is to expand the message of awareness for Lahaina and to offer financial assistance. Your donations go to support Lahaina victims and restoration. Each lei makes a difference.

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Mahalo Nui Loa!

Students making ti leaves
Students, parents, faculty making ti leaves
Leis at remembrance ceremony
Old photo of Lahaina

In the early days of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina was the home of the ruling ali'i. In 1802, Lahaina became the residence of King Kamehameha and served as the governing capital of the Hawaiian Islands. A brick palace was built along with other royal residences and facilities. In 1810, King Kamehameha unified the Hawaiian Islands and Lahaina became the first capital of unified Hawaii.  Lahaina remained the capital for 50 years, until Honolulu was selected for its harbor.

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The Lahaina Banyan Tree was planted as a seedling in 1873. It was a gift from India. For 150 years, the Banyan Tree has served a central part of bustling Lahaina Town.  Scorched by the flames of the fire, it appears that this beloved tree will survive, as a symbol of hope and inspiration.

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