The American Red Cross has awarded nearly $1.4 million in grant funding to Honolulu nonprofit Money Management International and its local partners working to support those affected by the Maui wildfires in August 2023, according to a Sept. 25 announcement.

"MMI is uniquely positioned to deliver our award-winning solutions anywhere in the U.S. and its territories,” said Michelle Jones, chief external affairs officer of Money Management International, in a statement. “We are grateful to the Red Cross for their generous support in helping us reach those impacted by the Hawaii wildfires and assist them in their recovery. Our goal is to provide critical resources that will not only assist with immediate needs but also lay the foundation for long-term economic growth and strength."

The funding will also increase capacity for Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and Maui Economic Opportunity Inc. to "provide comprehensive financial counseling, education, and technical assistance to residents impacted by the Maui wildfires," the announcement noted.

Pacific Business News asked MEO more about how it plans to use the allocated monies to serve the Valley Isle community.

According to MEO CEO Debbie Cabebe, the organization "will receive about $300,000 over one year to provide youth and adult financial literacy classes — money management, understanding personal credit, basic investment information — credit counseling and debt management."

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Courtesy Debbie Cabebe

She added, "The grant taps and expands successful programs run by MEO’s Business Development Center on Maui, Molokai, and Lanai."

MEO’s Business Development Center offers adult financial literacy classes, including credit and student debt counseling, at no cost.

"On a broader level, MEO has provided those impacted by the wildfires, through the Maui Relief TANF Program and other rental and utility programs, assistance with rent, car payments, utilities, clothing and school supplies," Cabebe told PBN. "This grant will help recipients to plan and budget and best use their assistance to lay a foundation for financial security."

These funds help MEO further our mission to “strengthen the community while helping people in need restore their hope, reach their potential and enrich their lives,” she said.

MEO has worked with the American Red Cross on relief efforts in Lahaina and Kula. "Grants such as this one broadens MEO’s reach. We are gratified that national organizations trust MEO and the work we do," Cabebe added.

According to her, nationwide partnerships "are an integral piece of MEO’s work in the Maui County community."

"It’s in our DNA," Cabebe said. "We partner with nonprofits, such as Hale Mahaolu and Catholic Charities [Hawaii]; government agencies, such as the Maui County Office on Aging; and businesses, including Maui Chamber of Commerce and Maui Economic Development Board."