Mahi Pono Sets Aside Three Acres For Future Expansion of Maui Humane Society

Mahi Pono announced the company has executed a long-term lease agreement with the Maui Humane Society that will enable an expansion onto three additional acres.

Under the agreement, MHS will be able to lease the adjacent land for $1 per year for a period of 60 years.

“We’re honored to be able to support the expansion of Maui Humane Society and their efforts to provide care for animals in our community that would otherwise be left without a home,” said Shan Tsutsui, senior vice president of operations for Mahi Pono. “The designated parcel has very limited agricultural potential so we’re happy that it will be able to better serve the community through MHS, we know it will help to make a difference on our island.”  

Built in 1989, MHS will use the additional land to expand its current shelter with a state-of-the-art veterinary facility, expanded animal housing and exercise areas. The new facility would also enhance opportunities for the community to be involved in educational activities and feature a public dog park.

“Mahi Pono’s generous offer reflects the importance of their investment in Maui and the extent to which they’ve committed to helping our community. As the sole animal shelter on the island, the physical limitations of our 30 year old facility have a tremendous impact on how many animals we can manage to care for at any one time,” said Steve MacKinnon, CEO of MHS.  “Expanding our veterinary clinic and animal housing are of primary importance to ensuring that we can fulfill our vision of saving even more lives, helping pet owners with medical needs, reducing the community cat population through increased spay/neuter services and maximize the positive impact we can provide to Maui’s homeless animals.”

Annually, MHS cares for more than 4,000 animals. The organization performed more than 5,000 spay/neuter surgeries and placed over 2,000 animals in foster homes. During the pandemic, MHS has seen a sizable increase in the number of pets surrendered and stray animals as people struggle to pay veterinary bills.

MacKinnon said, “Our long-term plan is to embark on a capital campaign to expand the shelter which will include facilities for the public and their pets. The MHS vision is to be more deeply connected within the community and serve as a resource to help keep pets in their homes.”

“This has been a very challenging year for all of us, but we must continue to share aloha and help out our neighbors. If you are able to, please join Mahi Pono in supporting one of the many community non-profit organzations like MHS, Maui Food Bank or Imua Family Services during this holiday season,” added Tsutsui.