It’s terrible to hear that there are more than 190 reported domestic violence cases in Maui each month.

How many more victims are silent?

Women Helping Women (WHW) is the charity that helps people suffering from domestic violence. Its mission is “to end domestic violence through advocacy, education and prevention; and to offer safety, support and empowerment to women and children, victims of domestic violence.”

Many residents might not know that WHW operates a resource center in Lahaina. Money is tight, but its needs are growing.

The West Maui chapter of BNI (Business Network International) wants to help the Lahaina shelter.

“As a collective group, we had a desire to help this wonderful organization raise awareness to needs of our community and also raise some money for the organization to keep operating,” noted BNI member Joy Sanchez.

BNI’s campaign includes a donation drive. Women Helping Women’s wish list includes Safeway or Foodland gift cards, gas gift cards, shelving or cabinets to hold items, working electronics such as computers and DVDs, small household items (rice cookers, microwaves, toaster ovens, irons, linens, etc.) and a van and/or truck to help relocate families and get to shelter. WHW currently uses a taxi service, which is getting expensive.

Aloha Self Storage at 23 Ulupono St. in Lahaina has donated two spaces to WHW to store their items. The business above Lahaina Gateway Center also granted BNI permission to hold a rummage sale there on Saturday, Aug. 21, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For information, call Carol Brown or Pema Gilman of Women Helping Women at 661-7111.

Domestic violence has a devastating impact on women, children and families. For many victims on the West Side, Women Helping Women is their only option.