LAHAINA, Hawaii--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The following is a statement from AFT Holdings CEO James Douglas Hines on Lahaina relief response efforts:
“As a long-time investor in Hawaii enterprises and as a resident of Maui where I live just outside of Lahaina, my wife and I are completely devastated by the tragic loss of lives and property in this historic landmark town that we love. This past week has been incredibly painful as we watched and mourned the complete and utter destruction of one of America’s iconic treasures, Lahaina Old Town. Our hearts are breaking for the families and beloved residents who have suffered insurmountable losses.
“One of AFT Holding’s longer-term partnerships in Lahaina is Fleetwoods on Front Street, founded by rock and roll icon Mick Fleetwood. This week, we were looking forward to celebrating 11 years of a restaurant that is cherished by so many people, residents, and tourists from around the world. The financial impact to the AFT Holdings portfolio is not material compared to the impact of the Lahaina fires and incalculable cost of human lives.
“The wonderful people who own, manage, and work at Fleetwoods are our family – our ohana. Over the years we have been blessed to get to know the hardworking individuals who work at the establishment, always with their uplifting Aloha spirit. Now, many are displaced after years of dedication to their work and to the customers from around the world.
“Today, as AFT Holdings makes a significant contribution to our Fleetwoods ohana, we ask others to join us in giving via the Fleetwoods GoFundMe Page here: https://gofund.me/9a5ccdd9.
“These funds will deliver assistance directly to those individuals affected in Lahaina.
“This is just the beginning. While one company’s contributions will never be enough to impact everyone in need, it’s part of our company’s DNA to step up and help. AFT Holdings will be doing even more in the coming days as we continue to financially support the relief efforts that will help Lahaina rebuild. We also will be sending food from AFT Holdings’ plant-based food operations producing Loma Linda products once reconstruction begins so that we can support our workforce at the right time, without being a hindrance to critical search and rescue efforts.
“The people of Maui are incredibly strong and courageous. There is an undeniably difficult road ahead but by working together to rebuild so that the community bounces back throughout this extraordinarily challenging time, and our company looks to a bright future. Mahalo.”
