23’ Fire Victim’s 1st time home owner’s program

Written By Travis Speck

Hoʻokumu Hou is a Maui County housing program created specifically to help victims of the 2023 wildfires rebuild and regain stable housing. Supported by federal Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds, it offers three main relief tracks: the Single-Family Homeowner Reconstruction Program, the Single-Family Homeowner Reimbursement Program, and the First-Time Homebuyer Opportunity Program. Income eligibility, proof of lost property, and other documentation are required for participation, with an emphasis on keeping rebuilt homes affordable for local, income-qualified families.

Applicants can apply online via the official Hoʻokumu Hou website, through a dedicated mobile app, or in person at resource centers located in Lahaina and Kahului. Case managers—like those from the Hawaiian Council—help residents with the process, and the Office of Recovery encourages anyone affected by the fires to submit an application, even if unsure of eligibility. Priority for the First-Time Homebuyer Opportunity Program is given to renters who earn less than 80% of Area Median Income and were displaced, but other programs remain open without imminent deadlines. The program is designed to provide direct, official support only, and residents are urged to avoid third-party offers or fraudulent prequalification claims.

The goal is to offer support for survivors by bridging financial gaps, navigating the permitting process, and ensuring they can return or stay in Maui. In-person assistance is available Monday through Saturday, with online resources provided for easy scheduling, up-to-date information, and answers to questions. See links below for more up to date info.

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Travis Speck
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