Support for the UC Berkeley community during Maui wildfires

Our hearts go out to the friends, families, and loved ones affected by the destructive fire in Lāhainā on the island of Maui in Hawai’i.

Media reports indicate more than 90 casualties – a number that may sadly increase as more information is gathered. We recognize that some of you may be from Maui or other Hawaiian islands, or have connections to the area, amplifying the personal impact of this ordeal.

The safety and well-being of each of you are of utmost concern to us. For students who seek support during this challenging time, our campus offers a range of resources:

  • Should you be grappling with the repercussions of this event, we encourage you to explore academic flexibility in consultation with your instructors. Visit the Academic Accommodations Hub for more information.

  • General Support: Visit the Office of the Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students’ Well Being resource, which provides more information about holistic wellness resources across campus. To discover additional resources and establish connections, reach out to deanofstudents@berkeley.edu

  • Mental Health Support: Campus counselors at University Health Services at the Tang Center are available on a drop-in basis for urgent concerns. Visit the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) website or call at (510) 642-9494. When the Tang Center is closed, call the after hours counseling line (855) 817-5667

    • Same-Day appointments: Students can call (510) 642-9494 or go on eTang portal to book an appointment. Calling is always the best way, as we hold urgent appointment slots that we don't release to web-booking on eTang. Aside from psychiatry visits, there's no charge for students, regardless of insurance. 

    • Let's Talk consultations: 20-30 minute consultations for students interested in speaking with a counselor or asking questions about how counseling works or mental health resources, etc.Let's Talk with Junichi: Wednesdays from 2:15-3:45pm for Summer and Fall @ 150 Chavez 

      • Let's Talk with Junichi: Wednesdays from 2:15-3:45pm for Summer and Fall @ 150 Chavez
      • Let's Talk with Jeff: Thursdays from 10am-12pm for Fall @ APASD in 249 Chavez
  • Financial Support: Learn more about  short-term emergency loans, or contactCal Student Central if you need assistance.

  • Student Legal Services Support: Learn more about https://sls.berkeley.edu/ for advice on legal questions, rights, and obligations or call at (510) 642-3916.

  • Pacific Islander (PI) Initiative: Learn more aboutresources and programming for Pacific Islander students

For staff who seek support relating to the Maui fires:

  • Be Well at Work – Employee Assistance provides free, confidential counseling and referrals for staff. To schedule an appointment with an Employee Assistance counselor, please contact (510) 643-7754 or email employeeassistance@berkeley.edu

  • If any of you are grappling with the aftermath of this incident, please consider discussing accommodations with your respective human resources officer in your department.

We are listening with care as you call on us to amplify ways the campus can support humanitarian efforts on the ground. We hear you looking for ways to connect with and care for each other. If you would like to do more, here are a few trusted organizations:

Here is a roundup of messages that have been shared with the community. We will update as new messages are shared with us.