San Diego Restaurant Rallies To Support Victims Of Maui Wildfires

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego restaurant Glass Box is raising funds to support the victims of the devastating Maui wildfires.

The Asian coastal-inspired kitchen and bar, which opened in January 2022, is kicking off an online silent auction Friday and also donating a portion of the restaurant sales to the cause.

Ethan Yang, owner and head chef at Glass Box, told Patch that he and the team at the restaurant "believe in the power of community and the responsibility (they) share to uplift one another in times of need."

"The devastation caused by the wildfires in Maui deeply resonates with us, reminding us of the importance of standing together," Yang said. "The cause holds a special place in our hearts as we believe in coming together to support those affected, not just as a restaurant, but as a part of a larger community that cares deeply about the well-being of others."

All proceeds from the online silent auction will benefit the Hawaii Community Foundation, an organization providing financial resources that can be deployed quickly, with a focus on rapid response and recovery for the wildfires. The online auction, hosted through GoFundMe, will run through Sept. 1.

The donor with the highest donation will receive an eight-course Omakase dinner experience that will be crafted by Glass Box's culinary team and hosted in the winner's home, according to the restaurant.

As part of the fundraising effort, Glass Box will also donate 15 percent of all sales generated during the two-week event at the restaurant to the Hawaii Community Foundation. To encourage donations, the restaurant will also offer a complimentary appetizer to anyone who provides proof of their donation to the foundation.

"We hope that our initiative serves as an inspiration for others to also contribute to the relief efforts. In times of crisis, every act of kindness matters," Yang said. "By joining hands and embracing selfless actions, we can collectively create a significant impact and extend a helping hand to those in need."

At least 111 people have died in the wildfires, with many more still missing. The most destructive fire in the town of Lahaina has become the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than 100 years, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.