Nonprofit group ‘Inside Outreach’ turns compassion into action, helping Hawaii flood victims
By Kristen Consillio
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HONOLULU (KITV) — A grassroots group of volunteers has been helping storm impacted families and they are determined to make a difference as this next storm is about to strike. The group has been helping people impacted by the storms for months — turning their compassion into action.
Josue Aguilar has been busy helping people move their belongings, and families, to safer areas and buying them supplies ahead of the impending storm.
“This is going to be like the fourth major storm in the last two months that’s hit Oahu, like the whole island and the other islands as well,” Aguilar said. “So really just getting some items, always need water. Have some batteries just in case people need to charge up flashlights.”
It’s been weeks now since his volunteers, numbering in the thousands, have been helping with cleanup and everything in between.
“It’s always amazing to see how many people come out to support,” Aguilar said. “Really people are always ready and want to help. They just need to know how and when.”
Aguilar runs nonprofit Inside Outreach, most recently helping flood victims pick up the pieces after devastating storms damaged properties and displaced residents who, in many cases, are now homeless.
“It’s just been amazing. I mean obviously, this whole month and a half has been pretty heavy on a lot of people, but the amount of people that have risen up to the occasion and just started helping without even like thinking twice,” he added. “They just jump in like literally pulling people out of dangerous situations.”
Telling the stories of people and places in need.
“Through all of the storytelling, we were able to raise $50,000 that’s gonna go all to the community,” he said.
And their social media posts continue to inspire volunteers to donate time, money and aloha.
“It’s unbelievable. You know, express human come like this. I our community and our people all over the island just come and volunteer the service, just to help their neighbors,” said flood victim Blanche McMillan. “They’re there to show the love and respect for others.”
To donate or volunteer, visit: insideoutreach.org
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