Maui fire survivors move into state-funded units at former hotel

KIHEI, Hawaii (KHON2) -- The Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation purchased a former Kihei hotel for the purpose of housing survivors of the Lahaina fire.

Survivors started moving into Hale o Laie, which will be able to house 150 families.

"The State Department of Human Services is helping to connect families with the cost-free interim housing option, which consists of hotel-style studios and suites. About a dozen families have already moved in. Hundreds have already applied. Pets are accepted as long as they are vaccinated. Thereʻs a pool, laundry, gym and even a soccer field on site. Early next year, Maui County will begin leasing here as well," Patrick Nickerson, of Hale o Laie Maui told KHON2.

The site was previously the Maui Sun Hotel and later the Haggai Institute.