Fire survivors in Maui now staying in FEMA housing will get bills to pay rent beginning Saturday, March 1.
It’s the first time they will be asked to pay rent since the fires in August 2023.
Renters received 30, 60 and 90-day notices of the change and were encouraged to file an appeal if they don’t have the ability to pay, according to FEMA. The deadline to appeal, according to Maui News, is March 11.
The housing program includes modular units at the Kilohana Temporary Group Housing Site. 156 of the 167 are currently occupied. In addition to Kilohana, there are primary and secondary sites.
Many appeals have already been filed.
“The amount they were asking me, I just have a one-bedroom, was absurd,” said Lahaina resident Charles Nahale to Hawaii Public Radio. At last report, he was anxiously awaiting a decision on his appeal.
The FEMA Housing Assistance Program will be in place for 11 more months until February 10, 2026.
Maui News reports those needing assistance can get help.
Maui County’s Office of Recovery
153 E. Kamehameha Ave., Suite 101 in Kahului
FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362
Disaster Case Management Services
Call 211 and press “4” or from the mainland call (808) ASK-2000.
Maui Relief Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program
(808) 243-4404, email [email protected] or visit MEOinc.org.
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