The Claydon Ohana, Lahaina Fire Tragedy

Friends and Family,

The Claydon family is SAFE!! Thank you for your prayers and concerns. They mean so much! Andy, Jes, Lara and Kiana are with friends in Napili and Kai is in California. Here is one tangible way to help them rebuild...

The story:

Many of you have seen the news about the fires on the island of Maui, Hawaii, one of which destroyed historic Lahaina overnight. This is where my sister and her family have resided for more than seventeen years, serving the community through YoungLife. On August 8th strong winds caused by nearby Hurricane Dora and dry conditions combined to create a situation where brush fires (with currently unknown causes) were fanned into infernos. As one of the nearby fires grew and headed their direction, Jes, Lara and Kiana evacuated north, throwing a few things in their vehicle. I believe they left with the mindset that their house would be fine and they'd be back soon. Andy stayed at the house a little longer and then evacuated north as well in a second vehicle.

We are SO THANKFUL that they evacuated when they did. The fire grew and consumed Lahaina, even forcing some into the ocean to be picked up by the coast guard. The current casualty count is 36 and is expected to grow. Dozens were injured. Jes and family are still trying to account for people they know, fearing lives lost. That is at the forefront of their minds right now.

Near the end of the following day, August 9th, the Claydons received confirmation that the house they have called home for the past thirteen years was consumed by the fire. They have lost nearly everything.

The material loss is still sinking in for them, and it is not what is most important to them. As has always been, it is the people - the relationships - that they care about. But we who love them also want to help them tangibly. We want to help them cover the expenses that will soon come - rent, security deposit, household items, clothing, etc. The money raised from this fundraiser will go directly to the Claydons. I am already overwhelmed by the number of people from all over who are asking how they can help. Let's love on this family who love and care for everyone they encounter.

Thank you in advance. I will try to update as often as I can.

Jennifer Olsen (one of Jes's sisters in AZ)