As Hawaii continues to recover from the deadliest US wildfire in more than 100 years, Kia America is providing $150,000 in donations to two organizations that are responding to the destruction. The American Red Cross and the Hawaii Community Foundation will receive $100,000 and $50,000, respectively, to support relief efforts on the island.

Additionally, the owner of seven Aloha Kia dealerships on the islands of Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii is providing relief assistance to employees and their families. Ken Garff Automotive Group is lending 60 days of logistical assistance to the communities of Maui and Lahaina by way of six Kia vehicles with drivers.

Ken Garff Automotive Group is also donating $50,000 to Hawaii Community Foundation, with Kia America matching this donation. With these donations combined, Kia is donating $200,000 to wildfire relief efforts.

Supporting the Rebuilding of Maui

The funds will be much needed, as the cost of rebuilding in Hawaii is massive. The work is estimated to be about 44% more expensive than construction in the mainland United States, according to global insurance data analytics provider Verisk. More than 2,200 homes and businesses will need to be rebuilt.

To support individuals facing financial hardship from the devastation, Kia Finance America is providing the following support to impacted customers: 

Maui Disaster Relief Buyer and Owner Programs

• $1,000 cash rebate on all new 2023-2024 Kia models for customers who provide proof of vehicle or home damage caused by the Maui wildfire that originated in August 2023 and purchase from a qualified Kia dealer. Proof of damage to be provided by a valid insurance claim form.  
• Current customers affected by the disaster can contact KFA at (866) 331-5632 to discuss financial hardship support options. Maui Disaster Relief Buyer and Owners Program available through 11/30/2023

These latest donations are a further extension of Kia’s “Accelerate the Good” charitable initiative, which has provided more than $22 million to those in need since 2019.

“The fires in Hawaii are devastating not only to the local community, they also impact the entire nation and Kia is dedicated to supporting those in need,” said Sean Yoon, president & CEO of Kia North America and Kia America. “We hope that today’s donations provide some hope and relief to those directly affected and help speed the recovery and rebuilding process.”

In addition to the donations to the American Red Cross and The Hawaii Community Foundation, Kia has made donations to causes that include treating childhood illness, helping to fight hunger and homelessness, relief for victims of natural disasters, and aid for military families.

Kia Country of Charleston proudly supports this generous effort from our Kia family. The devastation caused by the wildfires in Maui is heartbreaking. As Charleston enters hurricane season, this reminds us of the importance of caring for the lives of everyone around us.