The Cook Islands Government has donated $10,000 to help the victims of the recent wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii.

Acting Prime Minister Vainetutai Rose Toki-Brown and Minister George “Maggie” Angene handed over the cheque to members of Rarotonga’s “Ohana Nui O Lahaina, Maui” committee on Friday morning.

Toki-Brown said that the Cook Islands is a close-knit Pacific family, and that we stand united and ready to help each other in times of need.

“Together we feel each other’s pain, and together we celebrate our successes,” she said.

“This is a small gesture of our aroa, and our hearts and prayers go out to you our Pacific brothers and sisters during this time of immense loss and suffering.”

On behalf of all Cook Islanders, she offered her sincere condolences to the people of Lahaina for their loss of lives, trauma, and the destruction and loss of property.

Toki Brown also noted that the Cook Islands established diplomatic relations with the United States in Washington last week.

Puarii Crocombe, on behalf of the Ohana Nui O Lahaina, Maui committee, acknowledged the government’s donation and thanked all those involved in the radiothon and other fundraising events.

The Ohana Nui O Lahaina, Maui working committee members are: Doreen Kavana Boggs, Bishop Tutai Pere, Diana Ahsin-Safotu, David Akanoa, Taiora Matenga Smith and Nga Teao-Papatua, as well as many other supportive members.

The wildfire in Lahaina in early August destroyed the entire town, and thousands of people are displaced and homeless.

The New York Times reported on September 29 that Lahaina residents will be allowed to return to their neighbourhood on the following Monday to see what is left of their homes for the first time since the wildfires swept across parts of Maui and killed at least 97 people, making it one of the nation’s deadliest disasters.