Dear Santa Clara University Community,

It has been heartwrenching to watch as catastrophic wildfires have devastated Lāhainā and other communities on the island of Maui.  The Maui fires rank among the worst in modern times, because of the human toll and long term economic devastation.  Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones or their homes and livelihoods in this tragedy. 

We extend our prayers and support to the members of our Santa Clara University community who call Hawaii home or who have friends and family in Lāhainā, Kula, and Kihei.  Our Office of Student Life has reached out to students whose families may have been impacted, to offer support and care.  Students may complete this form to let Student Life know of their situation.

Santa Clara University has strong ties to residents of Hawaii.  Nearly 5,000 Bronco alumni, parents, and friends hail from Hawaii.  Many live there today, including some who call Maui home.  Maui County mayor Richard T. Bissen, Jr. (‘83) is a Bronco, and among those helping to lead response efforts in this time of need.  Our hearts ache for all those suffering, even as we pray for the resilience and generous solidarity that will be needed for recovery in the days, months, and years ahead.

As the relief efforts unfold, we urge Broncos to show their support tangibly by contributing to organizations working to rebuild lives on Maui.  Below, we have provided information on resources available to our community, as well as emergency relief organizations needing donations.

With prayers and support for the people of Maui and beyond, 

Julie Sullivan
President

Luis Calero, S.J.
Rector, Jesuit Community

Alison Benders
Vice President for Mission and Ministry

Resources for victims of the Maui fires:

Hawaii Community Foundation is working to support communities affected by the Maui wildfires through the Maui Strong Fund.  The foundation is accepting donations which will provide resources for disaster response and recovery.

The American Red Cross of Hawaii is accepting donations to help those displaced by the wildfire find safe shelters where they can get information, eat a hot meal, charge their phone, pick up relief supplies and get health services.

The Maui Humane Society is accepting donations on its website and on Facebook to help feed and care for displaced pets, many of whom need medical treatment.

University counseling and support:

Campus Ministry. Staff are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 408-554-4372 and campusministry@scu.edu at any time.  A campus minister is on call daily for supportive conversation and guidance.

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Located at Cowell Center, CAPS is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, and is reachable at 408-554-4501.  Students outside California should access CAPS 24/7 for support at 408-554-5220: You will speak with a licensed mental health counselor who will listen, offer guidance, and help you set a plan.

Office of Student Life (Santa Clara Campus). The Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 408-554-4583.

Students can also contact Campus Safety Services for assistance reaching service providers, especially after hours (408-554-4441).

For faculty and staff, grief counseling sessions are available through our Employee Assistance Program, Concern EAP, by calling 1-800-344-4222 (Company Code: scueap). Counselors are available 24/7.