Hawaii-born Houston Dynamo legend to host fundraiser for town ravaged by wildfires in Maui

Shannon Ryan Image
Sunday, August 13, 2023
Houston Dynamo legend to raise money for relief efforts in Maui
A fundraiser will be held at a downtown Houston bar, Pitch 25, by former Houston Dynamo player Brian Ching to raise efforts for wildfires in Maui.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The death toll has risen to at least 80 people after wildfires ravaged parts of Hawaii and destroyed the historic town of Lahaina on the island of Maui, according to county officials.

"It's hard to recognize. It's apocalyptic in a lot of ways, and I just feel terrible," Brian Ching said.

RELATED: Death toll climbs to 80 in Maui wildfires

Ching, a former Houston Dynamo player, grew up on Oahu but has loved ones on Maui, including his niece, who lost her home to the fires.

"In an instant, people's lives change," he said.

Ching made history as the first Hawaiian on the US Men's National Soccer Team.

RELATED: Former Dynamo Brian Ching opens soccer-themed bar in Houston

"I feel a little awkward actually in that sense." he laughed. "I feel like now that I am where I am, and I've had the career that I've had. I'm able to give back a little bit more."

Ching said he hopes to do that with his bar in downtown Houston, Pitch 25, this month. It sits in the shadow of Shell Energy Stadium, where he once played.

WATCH: AERAL FOOTAGE SHOWS DEVASTATION IN MAUI TOURIST TOWN

We're getting our first aerial look at the devastation in the historic Hawaiian town of Lahaina as a wildfire whips through the area -- and it's absolutely heartbreaking.

On Sunday, they will donate 10% of their profits to the Maui United Way. Fifty percent of all Kona beer sales will also be donated.

"If you can afford it, please donate," Ching said.

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