A powerful storm system brought severe weather across the Hawaiian Islands starting March 12, unleashing heavy rain that triggered flash floods, mudslides, uprooted trees, and widespread disruption statewide. Ahead of the storm's arrival, the State announced school closures and asked non-essential workers to stay home — a reminder of just how serious conditions were on the ground.
As the storm bore down, The Salvation Army Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division was ready. Our Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team mobilized on March 12, serving more than 600 meals to first responders, shelter residents, and community members in need across O'ahu and Hawaiʻi Island in just the first two days.
"As long as there is community need, we'll be there." Major Troy Trimmer, Divisional Commander, The Salvation Army Hawaiian & Pacific Islands
That commitment is exactly what our corps officers, staff, and volunteers put into action throughout the storm.
On O'ahu
Our team coordinated meals for sheltering individuals and families across seven O'ahu shelters, as well as staff working at the O'ahu Emergency Operations Center. The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center kitchen team stepped up to prepare meals for select shelters, while Domino's Hawaii — a dedicated Salvation Army community partner — donated pizzas for dinner to those sheltering at the Wahiawa District Park shelter on Friday evening.
On Hawaiʻi Island
In Hilo, our team didn't wait for the storm to arrive. The Salvation Army Hilo Temple Corps opened its Overnight Safe Space early on March 13, giving houseless community members a safe place to weather the storm before it hit. The space has continued operating around the clock while severe weather conditions remain. Beginning Saturday, March 15, the Hilo Temple Corps also began providing three full meals a day to residents sheltering at Hawaiʻi County's Pu'u'eo Community Center.
Still on the Ground
Our volunteers and staff remain on standby as we continue monitoring the situation closely. Whenever and wherever the need arises, The Salvation Army will be there.