FEMA extends housing aid for Maui wildfire survivors until 2027

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem approved an extension of FEMA temporary housing assistance for Maui wildfire survivors through February 2027, Gov. Josh Green said. Nearly 1,000 households displaced by the 2023 fires had been awaiting the decision.

Federal officials approved an extension of temporary housing aid for people displaced by the 2023 Maui wildfires. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green announced that Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem approved the extension of Federal Emergency Management Agency housing assistance through February 2027. Nearly 1,000 households had been awaiting word on whether that assistance would expire. The state had requested another extension because rebuilding has been slow and rental availability on the island remains limited. Key details: - Secretary Kristi Noem approved Hawaii's request to extend FEMA temporary housing assistance until February 2027, Gov. Josh Green said. - Nearly 1,000 households displaced by the wildfires had been awaiting the decision on continued federal housing aid. - The program had previously been extended to February 2026 after an initial 18-month period; FEMA, the state and nonprofit partners provided rent payments, leased units and temporary shelters. - FEMA did not immediately respond to requests for confirmation of the extension, according to the article. Summary: This decision extends federal housing support through February 2027 for households displaced by the Maui wildfires and reduces immediate uncertainty for many families. State officials and service providers had sought the extension because few homes have been rebuilt and rental inventory remains very limited. Undetermined at this time.