STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) – As the island struggles to recover from the Maui wildfires, Sentry is donating $377,616 to the Maui Food Bank and Maui United Way. The Sentry, a PGA TOUR event supported by Sentry, is held on the island (formerly known as the Sentry Tournament of Champions).
According to a press release, the donation will include $150,000 to Maui Food Bank and $227,616 to Maui United Way. An employee-led fundraiser brought in an additional $13,326.
“We understand that West Maui has a long road to recovery, and we’re committed to being part of that process,” said Pete McPartland, Sentry Chairman and CEO. “Our giving philosophy has been to support organizations that provide direct relief to those who need it most, and the Maui United Way and the Maui Food Bank are doing just that. We’re confident in their ability to make a profound impact.”
Sentry stated that the company has a history of helping Maui through both good and trying times. The business gave $250,000 to the Maui Food Bank and $200,000 to the Maui United Way during the COVID-19 crisis.
“The wave of need for food following the fire disaster is turning into a tidal wave, as people throughout Maui County are now experiencing job layoffs from the sudden lack of tourism,” said Richard Yust, Executive Director of Maui Food Bank. “We’re gearing up resources to meet the growing needs, and we are deeply grateful for Sentry’s partnership as we continue to provide reliable food access and sustain our community through these challenging times.”
Sentry made a $275,000 donation shortly after the tragic wildfires to support the islanders’ needs and aid in relief efforts. This included $250,000 to the University of Hawai’i-Maui College Student Relief Fund and $25,000 to the Maui United Way – Fire Disaster Relief Fund.
With the extra contributions, Sentry’s relief and restoration efforts for the Maui wildfires now total $652,616.
As of last week, 97 people have been confirmed dead in the destructive Maui fire, down from the initial estimate of 115, which Maui County medical examiner Dr. Jeremy Stuelpnagel attributed to some cases where authorities mistakenly thought remains belonged to two people rather than just one.
