From left to right, Armrey owners Jean Bishop and Julian Bishop.
In a heartfelt gesture showcasing the spirit of community and solidarity, the well-established local remodeling business, Armrey Industries, Inc., on Friday announced its commitment to donate a portion of its entire earnings for the remainder of 2023 to the Maui Disaster Response and Relief efforts. A cornerstone of the Virgin Islands community since 1961, the company now beckons other businesses in the region to join them in this noble cause.
Early this August, a series of wildfires erupted in Hawaii, mainly on Maui island. These fires, intensified by strong winds, led to evacuations, caused significant damage, and resulted in the death of at least 111 people in L?hain?. Around 1,300 individuals are still unaccounted for, and the death count might significantly increase in the following days. The rapid spread of the fires was due to dry, windy conditions caused by a high-pressure area north of Hawaii and Hurricane Dora to the south.
On August 8, an emergency declaration was signed, enabling various measures such as the activation of the Hawaii National Guard and the allocation of state funds for relief efforts. By August 9, a state of emergency was declared for the entire state of Hawaii. On August 10, U.S. President Joe Biden declared a federal major disaster.
Regarding the L?hain? fire, over 2,200 buildings were destroyed, mainly residential, including several historic landmarks. The estimated damage from this fire is close to $6 billion.
Julian Bishop, president and general manager of Armrey, emphasized the deep bond that binds island communities. Reflecting on the 2017 hurricanes that ravaged the Virgin Islands, he said, “Our community knows firsthand the heartbreak of natural disasters. Now, Maui is in need, and we stand ready to assist.”
Jean Bishop, the heart of Armrey and wife to the late Jack Bishop, underlined the universality of human compassion. Drawing from her personal experiences during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, she shared, “Acts of kindness from strangers across the globe saved us. Now, it's our turn to rally behind Maui.”
Following the loss of Jack Bishop, the spirit of giving at Armrey has been further embedded into the company's ethos. Under Jean and Julian's stewardship, Armrey has rolled out the “Jack Sprat Giveback” initiative, aiming to offer an array of discounted or donated services to the Virgin Islands community, a tribute to the land that nurtured Jack.
By choosing Armrey for any purchase, customers are directly aiding those affected in Maui. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, Armrey Industries, Inc. specializes in custom cabinetry and countertops, catering to both residential and commercial spaces.
Those wishing to explore Armrey's offerings can visit their showroom in Estate Richmond, or learn more at Armrey.com. For direct donations to Maui relief efforts, visit hawaiicommunityfoundation.org or other local community groups.
