In the wake of the devastating wildfires that swept through the historic town of Lahaina in Hawaii last month, killing more than 100 people, the crypto community is being called upon to rally around a new NFT fundraiser aimed at providing relief to the victims.
The fundraiser and NFT, “Maui Strong”, is a collaboration between a Hawaii-based artist Jasper Wong and emerging tech news publication Decrypt. Proceeds from the sale of the NFT open coin will go directly to Maui wildfire relief efforts through the Maui Strong Fund from the Hawaii Community Foundation.
“The wildfires have left a trail of devastation that has been truly heartbreaking,” said Wong, leader of the Hawaiian arts community and founder of Worldwide Walls, an international coalition of mural artists.
“While I don’t have any family that lives in Maui—my family calls Oahu home—I do have friends there, some of whom have tragically lost their homes,” he explained.
Maui Strong NFT artist and Jasper Wong, native of Hawaii. Photo courtesy of Jasper Wong.
The NFT features Wong’s signature style of bright colors and intricate linework that forms the shape of the island of Maui, with the words “Maui Strong” woven throughout.
“The words themselves are intricately fashioned to take the form of Maui itself, symbolizing the staying power and resilience ingrained in the essence of the island and its inhabitants,” Wong said.
Decrypt Editor-in-chief Guillermo Jimenez said he hopes the crypto community will come together to support the victims of the tragedy.
“Our thoughts go out to the people of Maui who have been affected by this terrible tragedy. What they have suffered is unimaginable to most of us,” said Jimenez. “We hope this collective gesture from the art, NFT and crypto communities will bring them much-needed relief.”
He went on to praise Wong’s inspiring work. “Jasper Wong is an amazing artist and an inspiration to the people of Hawaii, and Maui Strong sends a powerful message to the island’s residents who are still suffering from these devastating wildfires: The world has not forgotten you.”
The NFT will be available as an open coin, meaning there is no limit to the number that can be sold. Cryptocurrency holders can buy the NFT coins for a donation starting at 0.01 ETH (about $30 at current prices).
Decrypta leading publication covering cryptocurrency, Web3 and emerging technology such as artificial intelligence is hosting the NFT fundraiser Third webwhich donates its leading decentralized resources to the cause.
Thirdweb is a platform built specifically for NFT and metaverse projects that provides the tools and infrastructure for crypto-native apps. The company wants to make blockchain development accessible to everyone.
“With your support, you can help us focus relief efforts on those in need and remind the world once again that Valley Isle is ‘Maui Strong’,” said Jimenez.
The wildfires in Maui in early August were fueled by dry conditions and high winds, caused by a tropical storm at sea. The fire swept across the island at more than 80 miles per hour, engulfing homes, businesses and historic landmarks in Lahaina and other parts of West Maui. Hundreds are still missing and thousands of residents are still being driven from their homes. Recovery efforts are expected to take months, and rebuilding will take years.
The Maui Strong Fund has already raised more than $61 million and provides funds that can be deployed quickly. The money raised will support evolving needs, including shelter, food, financial aid and other services, as identified by Hawaii Community Foundation partners doing critical work on Maui.
Wong hopes the fundraiser can play a small part in the long rebuilding process. “The journey to recovery will be a long one. I hope to be able to help as much as I can in the years to come and provide assistance in any capacity,” he said.