Sentry Insurance Contributes $1 Million to Enhance Youth Mental Health Support in Maui

Sentry Insurance Boosts Youth Mental Health Support in Maui

In a heartfelt response to the devastating wildfires that ravaged Maui in August 2023, Sentry Insurance has committed an additional $1 million to Maui United Way. This significant donation aims to enhance youth mental health services through the Sentry Mālama Nā Keiki initiative, which has already made strides in supporting the local youth affected by the crisis.

The announcement, made just before the upcoming Sentry PGA TOUR tournament at Kapalua from January 2-5, 2025, underscores Sentry’s dedication to the community and its ongoing efforts to tackle the emotional fallout from the wildfires. These wildfires were among the deadliest in U.S. history, leaving a deep scar on the mental well-being of many children on the island.

Launched in November 2023 with an initial funding of $1 million, the Mālama Nā Keiki initiative has since supported over 5,000 children and their families. With a focus on providing trauma-informed services, the program has efficiently addressed the most pressing emotional needs by bringing trusted mental health counselors into schools, parks, and community centers—where youth feel safest and most comfortable.

According to Pete McPartland, Sentry's Chairman and CEO, "Helping the Maui community recover and heal is deeply personal for us. Our commitment to Maui extends beyond our role as the title sponsor of The Sentry. We are focused on supporting the people of this island as they rebuild, ensuring they have the necessary resources to move forward with hope and stability."

The newly allocated funds will not only sustain the impactful initiative but are also aimed at expanding its reach. The program has already referred around 80 children for more comprehensive counseling, reflecting the critical role mental health services play in the aftermath of such tragic events.

Jason Economou, President and CEO of Maui United Way, expressed gratitude, stating, "We are incredibly grateful for Sentry's continued support and generosity. The Sentry Mālama Nā Keiki initiative is already making a tangible difference in the lives of children and families across Maui. This additional funding ensures we can keep this important work going and continue providing the mental health resources our community urgently needs."

Since its inception as the title sponsor of The Sentry in 2017, Sentry Insurance has actively engaged in charitable endeavors, contributing over $7.5 million to various local charities and initiatives. This includes a notable $4.4 million from the Sentry Foundation targeted at enhancing the quality of life in the communities they serve.

With a total of more than $3 million now dedicated to wildfire relief and recovery efforts, Sentry Insurance is setting a precedent for corporate philanthropy, redefining what it means to be a responsible and engaged corporate citizen. As the island continues to grapple with the aftermath of the wildfires, the commitment from Sentry emphasizes the importance of mental health services tailored to youth—helping them navigate the complexities of grief, loss, and trauma.

As communities sometimes need more than physical resources to bounce back, initiatives like the Sentry Mālama Nā Keiki provide hope and support for the younger generation, reinforcing stability during turbulent times. Maui's journey to recovery is complex, but with continued partnerships and program support, the path to healing is growing clearer for many affected children.

To learn more about Sentry's ongoing contributions to the Maui community and how they are making a positive impact, you can visit sentry.com/about-us/company-news-and-events.