Maui, Kauai to Get $400K For Storm Cleanup

Hana, Maui - March storm damage. Courtesy file photo by Karley Kahalehoe.

By Sonia Isotov

The US Department of Labor yesterday announced a $400,000 National Emergency Grant to assist with clean-up and recovery efforts in the wake of the severe storms, flooding and landslides that hit the Hawaiian islands of Kauai and Maui between March 3 and 11.

“Under this grant, the people of Hawaii will receive much-need storm relief,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Jane Oates, in a written statement.

“The Labor Department’s funding is part of the federal government’s commitment to assist the state with clean-up and repair of its infrastructure, and help those affected by the severe storms return to normalcy.”

Damage to Hana Highway following the storm. Photo courtesy of Sanoe Tiana Kalalau.

The funds are being awarded to the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and will be used to create 20 temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist in clean-up and recovery efforts.

On April 18, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared the islands of Kauai and Maui eligible for its Public Assistance Program. While Kauai has been targeted by the state for assistance under this grant, Maui may be included at a later date.

Hana storm damage. Courtesy photo by Jun Pua.

More information on designated disaster areas in Hawaii is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/news/eventcounties.fema?id=16392.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor’s discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state’s ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.