Meet Makeleta's Family

(Pictured: Makeleta & Her Children with Napili Surf Managers, Tano & Angela Taitano)

Makeleta Taufa Vasquez is the Housekeeping Supervisor, first joining Napili Surf 6 years ago. She is known by both staff and guests for her incredible Tongan strength and vibrant spirit. Makeleta also has 6 beautiful children, Junior (18), Felecita (16). Salota (14), Sara (12), Jaime (11), and Richard (5). Her children are truly special kids, who all reflect the kind, thoughtful, and resilient character of their dedicated mother. 

As a result of the Lahaina fires, Makeleta & her beautiful children lost everything...their home and all their belongings destroyed. The fire also caused Makeleta to lose her second income source, which is imperative for her to support her children. But through all the devastation, Makeleta has expressed constant gratitude, focused on the miracle that her children were saved.  

Her oldest son, Junior, was back in Hawaii for a visit, on break from school at Millersville University in PA. When the fires hit, Makeleta was at work, and all communications were already out. As the chaos ensued, Junior determined that he had to go get his siblings and nearby elders. After gathering up everyone up from their homes, Junior helped his siblings and elders narrowly escape as the fires ravage through. Stranded on a road en route trying to reach her kids, Makeleta finally reunited with her children later that night and learned that the selfless strength and bravery of her oldest son had saved their beautiful family.

The fires have caused them unthinkable loss and trauma.  Now homeless and without resources, Makeleta and four of her children are continuing to taking temporary refuge at Napili Surf. But this family has remained a beacon of perseverance, humor, and light to everyone around them, constantly helping others even in the midst of their own devastation. It is with a heart of gratitude and Tonga strength that Makeleta faces the staggering journey ahead to recover the lives of her and her children.

To help Makeleta and her amazing family, please Donate & Share: 

DONATE   Every donation makes a difference in the lives of these families. 

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