San Manuel Gives $125,000 to American Red Cross to Aid in the Recovery of Hawaii Wildfires

Las Vegas, NV — The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (SMBMI) and the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) along with Palms Casino Resort have made a contribution of $125,000 in support of the Hawaiian people as they endeavor to recover from devastating wildfires. This gift to the American Red Cross is the first of possible future contributions that San Manuel may consider to help those impacted by the Hawaii wildfires. This donation will aid the Hawaii wildfire relief efforts and provide much-needed shelter, food, supplies, and other emergency resources to affected communities. 

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena and San Manuel Gaming Hospitality Authority Chairwoman Latisha Prieto said the Tribe sees the tremendous impact the wildfire has left on the island of Maui, and the families that call it home. The Tribe stands with those who have suffered losses to the wildfires as well as those brave professional first responders and other emergency staff who are helping with recovery efforts.

“Our hearts are filled with sympathy and hope for the people of Maui,” said Chairwoman Valbuena. “Recovery from a tragedy like that suffered by the Hawaiian people takes time. The devastation to Lahaina, neighborhoods across the beautiful island of Maui, and the tourism industry is unbearable. We want to extend aid in the most effective way possible.”

SMGHA Chairwoman Latisha Prieto said, “During critical times in our history, our Tribe found solace in the compassion of those who extended their resources to our community. It is now our opportunity to extend a helping hand to the Hawaiian community grappling with the ravages of wildfires." 

SMGHA and Palms’ support of the Red Cross is a further extension of Palms Cares and San Manuel’s philanthropic outreach to render aid to communities facing challenges and recovery efforts. The Tribe has been a partner with the American Red Cross for more than 20 years.

"We have a significant contingent of employees and guests with deep connections to Maui and the Hawaiian Islands, making the wildfires' impact deeply personal," stated Cynthia Kiser Murphey, General Manager of Palms Casino Resort. "It is with a strong sense of pride that we unite to provide unwavering support to the first responders and the American Red Cross in their crucial endeavors. The Palms team will be working closely with the SMGHA on additional programs and activations to support our team members, their families and the good people of Hawaii."

For more information about the relief efforts for the Hawaii wildfires, please visit redcross.org.