Summary:
- President Biden's visit to Lahaina, Hawaii, in the aftermath of the wildfire.
- Residents eager to see if federal aid promises will be upheld.
- Significant federal aid approved, including rental assistance and personnel deployment.
- Community's determination to recover and find answers amid the devastation.
One day after President Biden visited Lahaina, Hawaii, recovery efforts are continuing as many fire victims begin the process of just starting to put their lives back together. Don Yabakis has the latest now from Lahaina.
Many people in Lahaina warmly welcomed President Biden and the first lady on Monday as they toured wildfire damage. However, some residents are now anxious to see if the president's promises of unwavering federal aid are kept and when that help will arrive. Suzy Richter, who lost her home in the fires, expressed skepticism and emphasized the need for action to back up words. The world is watching as the Biden administration has already approved at least $8.2 million in federal aid, including $3 million in initial rental assistance that has already been distributed. President Biden reassured the community that the country grieves with them, stands by them, and is committed to aiding in the recovery, rebuilding, and preserving cultural traditions.
As recovery efforts continue in the aftermath of the devastating wildfire, more than a thousand federal personnel, including search and rescue experts, remain in Maui to assist. With a focus on addressing the needs of affected families and individuals, cadaver dog teams, such as Christy Borman and her dog Canyon, are diligently working to provide closure for as many families as possible. As the authorities anticipate the possibility of more casualties, the community remains resilient. Reporting from Lahaina, Hawaii, this is Don Yabakis for CBS News.