2023 Lahaina wildfires lead to poverty doubling, income cuts, and increased unemployment for survivors.

A University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization report reveals significant increases in poverty and unemployment among survivors of the 2023 Lahaina wildfires. The poverty rate among respondents has more than doubled, with 29% now living in poverty. Incomes dropped by over half for nearly 20% of those surveyed, and unemployment rose from 2.3% to 14.2%. The findings highlight urgent housing needs, as 90% of respondents lost their homes and many seek to return to West Maui.

October 08, 2024
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