MAUI (HawaiiNewsNow) – Nearly 1,000 families who survived the 2023 fires are facing uncertainty as their FEMA housing assistance is set to expire next month.
The 946 households enrolled in FEMA’s Temporary Housing Assistance program will lose their support on Feb. 28 unless the federal government grants an extension.
Narciso Billianor Jr., known as “Uncle Jimmy,” has lived in FEMA temporary housing for about a year. The disabled Lahaina fire survivor said he has struggled to find permanent housing.
“I feel okay. If I have to move, I have to move. There’s nothing you can do,” Billianor said.
Mayor urges families to prepare
Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen is encouraging the 946 families to develop backup plans while the federal decision remains pending.
“If you’re offered a place to stay, as either a rental or a purchase or something that you can transition from the temporary housing, my first advice to you, as a plan, is to take that,” Bissen said.
The temporary housing program was initially designed to last 18 months following the 2023 fire disaster and was already extended for one year. Bissen has requested another one-year extension from the federal government.
“The request is currently sitting with the Department of Homeland Security. The Secretary has that sitting on her desk, and she’ll have to make a decision to approve it,” Bissen said.
County working on contingency plans
Bissen said the county has been collaborating with the county council and state government on alternative solutions if the federal extension is denied.
“We’re not leaving you guys, okay? We’re going to continue to work with … the state, the county, there is a plan,” Bissen said.
The mayor said he cannot share details of the backup plan but expects a response from the Secretary of Homeland Security by next week.
Billianor said he is not picky. He just wants to feel safe.
“Only thing I need is to try and get me a generator so I can get electric for my oxygen, and one of those big canopies that they park cars under to make it like a house. So that way I stay out of the rain. Other than that, I’ll do anything, just to get a place to relax,” Billianor said.
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