In a recent meeting of the Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee, heartfelt testimonies highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing in the region. As the sun streamed through the windows of the county building, community members gathered virtually, sharing their personal stories and advocating for Bill 9, which aims to address the housing crisis affecting local families.

Kathleen Cardenas Aro, a Lahaina native, passionately spoke about her upbringing in a family that struggled to make ends meet. “The cost of housing here is more than just high; it’s a barrier that holds families back from stability and security,” she said. Her words resonated deeply, emphasizing that affordable housing is not merely about structures but about the people who inhabit them. She painted a vivid picture of local residents—longtime workers unable to afford homes near their jobs and children who feel uprooted due to frequent moves. “We’re losing the people who are our culture because they simply can’t afford to stay,” she lamented, calling the situation a crisis that demands immediate action.

Aniel Velais, representing the nonprofit Roots Reborn, echoed these sentiments, sharing insights from a financial education program aimed at supporting those affected by the devastating wildfires of 2023. Velais highlighted the emotional toll of displacement and the critical need for stable housing as a foundation for recovery. “What would support your recovery and your sense of wholeness?” was a question posed to participants, underscoring the connection between housing stability and emotional well-being.

As the meeting progressed, the committee members listened intently, recognizing the urgency of the testimonies. The discussions underscored a collective understanding that the housing crisis in Maui is not just a policy issue but a deeply personal one, affecting the very fabric of the community. With voices rising in unison for change, the call for affordable housing in Maui County has never been clearer. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how swiftly they can respond to the needs of their constituents, ensuring that everyone has a place to call home.