(Washington, D.C., August 15, 2023)—B’nai B’rith International has opened a disaster and emergency relief fund—seeded with an initial $10,000 contribution from the organization—to aid the victims of the devastating wildfires in Hawaii.  

At least 99 people were killed after wildfires swept through the historic town of Lahaina, making this the deadliest wildfire in the United States in 100 years. The speed of the inferno left residents limited time to flee.  

In addition to the alarming death toll, the property destruction is on a massive and unimaginable scale. Funds raised by B’nai B’rith will help with community rebuilding efforts. The Lahaina wildfires damaged or destroyed some 2,700 homes and buildings.

Our longstanding tradition of helping communities in distress began in 1865 in pre-state Israel when we raised funds to aid victims of a cholera outbreak. Since then, B’nai B’rith has helped countless people across the globe who have faced adversity after natural and man-made disasters. Recent donations to our Disaster and Emergency Relief Fund have been used to help victims of Hurricane Ian in 2022 and those impacted by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria earlier this year.

To help us help those in need in Hawaii, donate to our Disaster and Emergency Relief Fund here.

Donors can also call 800-573-9057 to make a credit card contribution over the phone. Or, you can send a check payable to the B’nai B’rith Disaster and Emergency Relief Fund to

B’nai B’rith International Disaster and Emergency Relief Fund
1120 20th Street NW, Suite 300N
Washington, D.C. 20036

B’nai B’rith International has advocated for global Jewry and championed the cause of human rights since 1843. B’nai B’rith is recognized as a vital voice in promoting Jewish unity and continuity, a staunch defender of the State of Israel, a tireless advocate on behalf of senior citizens and a leader in disaster relief. With a presence around the world, we are the Global Voice of the Jewish Community. Visit www.bnaibrith.org.