County, Nonprofits Respond to Downtown Hilo Fire
County, Nonprofits Respond to Downtown Hilo Fire
The County of Hawaiʻi worked closely with nonprofits Sunday to support residents impacted by a structure fire that destroyed four buildings in downtown Hilo.
The fire, which was reported shortly before 1 a.m. on Kinoʻole and Haili streets, displaced seven residents and resulted in the evacuation of dozens of others from nearby buildings. There were no fatalities or injuries.
Following the fire, County agencies immediately began working with nonprofits, including the Red Cross, Hope Services, Salvation Army, and Vibrant Hawaiʻi, to provide shelter and meals for those displaced by the fire or unable to immediately return to their homes.
The response and recovery efforts included a shelter at Clem Akina Park, which was relocated to the County’s Hoʻolulu Complex with meal service and showers. Transportation was provided by the County’s Mass Transit Agency. By about 4 p.m., evacuated residents were allowed to return but the shelter will remain open through the night for those who still need assistance.
The downtown fire followed a separate fire on Saturday in Hilo that resulted in two fatalities and displacement of 28 residents, who were assisted by the Red Cross and Hope Services.
Mayor Kimo Alameda commented:
“Our community faced multiple tragic events this weekend, including the loss of two lives during a structure fire in Hilo on Saturday. On behalf of the County of Hawaiʻi, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those we lost.
On Sunday, a separate fire destroyed four buildings in downtown Hilo. While we are grateful that no lives were lost, the impact on our community remains significant. I want to express my profound gratitude to our first responders who worked tirelessly and courageously this weekend to protect life and property. Your service is invaluable.
I also wish to thank our nonprofit partners who are working closely with the County to provide essential support, including meals and shelter to those impacted. These fires remind us that our greatest strength lies in our dedication to our community and compassion for those in need.”
The cause of both fires is unknown and remain under investigation.
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