Paradise Helicopters is donating $10,000 to relief efforts for communities on Hawaii Island affected by recent volcanic activity, the company announced Thursday.
The funds will be distributed through the Hawaii Island Volcano Recovery Fund at the Hawaii Community Foundation, which supports critical areas of need, including assistance with shelter for displaced residents.
“Paradise Helicopters’ generous gift will support efforts that provide housing, case management, legal and other essential services for those impacted by the Kilauea volcano eruption,” said Diane Chadwick, HCF’s director of community philanthropy on the Big Island. “We are grateful for the many individuals and companies that have stepped up to care for these communities while they recover.”
In early May, Paradise launched several initiatives to assist with relief and response. For several months, $10 per seat on all directly booked tours originating from Hilo International Airport, and $20 per seat on tours departing from Kona International Airport, were set aside for relief efforts.
Paradise also has continued to offer residents discounted flights and a complimentary day-of seat on flights from Hilo to help them survey their home or property, and is flying news media over the area to provide accurate coverage.
The company has donated time and equipment to rescue operations, including the evacuation of people and animals.
“These efforts are part of our longstanding Hoomaluo Program, which has supported environmental and community stewardship since our founding more than 20 years ago,” said Calvin Dorn, CEO of Paradise Helicopters. “We are proud to support these communities and work in coordination with HCF and other agencies to offer relief.”