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The scientists fighting to help Maui wildfire survivors heal
Publication: Grist
Author: Keerti Gopal
Source published: 14/11/2026, 14:00:00 UTC
Briefing created: 14/11/2026, 14:08:42 UTC
Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 14/11/2026, 14:00:24 UTC.
Briefings
Two University of Hawaii professors, Ruben Juarez and Alika Maunakea, launched the Maui Wildfire Exposure Study (MauiWES) in May 2023 to track health impacts of the 2023 Maui wildfires. Three years later, the study expanded into a comprehensive intervention program providing free medical testing, mental health support, and financial aid to over 2,500 survivors. Despite critical federal funding running out and state funding falling through just before the event, the team continued operations, aiming to establish a national model for disaster public health response.
Key points
- The Maui Wildfire Exposure Study (MauiWES) was launched in May 2023 by Ruben Juarez and Alika Maunakea to track health impacts of the 2023 Maui wildfires.
- Three years later, the study expanded into a comprehensive intervention program providing free medical testing, mental health support, and financial aid to over 2,500 survivors.
Context
The Maui Wildfire Exposure Study (MauiWES) is a research and intervention initiative led by University of Hawaii professors Ruben Juarez and Alika Maunakea. It tracks health impacts of the 2023 Maui wildfires and provides free medical testing, mental health support, and financial aid to over 2,500 survivors. The study aims to establish a national model for disaster public health response.
Limitations
Critical federal support for the study was running out, with grant applications met with silence for months. State funding also fell through just two weeks before the study's final event, leaving the team uncertain about future resources and potentially limiting long-term program sustainability.
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