Tongma Melencheck is a 73-year-old farmer who has spent her entire life working the land. Living alone on her farm, she has always relied on her hands and her determination to grow tomatoes, okra, parsley, and green onions. Despite the challenges, Tongma has remained humble and generous, sharing her vegetables at the Waialua market and finding companionship in her three loyal dogs who protect her each night.

Tongma’s life has not been easy. She raised three sons, but after one passed away in his twenties and the other two moved out of state for better opportunities, she chose to stay behind and continue farming. She has been on her own for over 50 years; she has never remarried, pouring her heart into her land and her community. Her only means of transportation was her van, and her small farmhouse was her sanctuary.

Recently, after the devastating Kona low storm struck, Tongma’s crops, her van, and her farmhouse were all destroyed. In an instant, she lost her livelihood, her shelter, and her way to get around. Now, Tongma needs immediate and urgent support to recover from this disaster. Your help can make a real difference—by contributing, you’ll help her rebuild and restore the life she loves. Please consider supporting Tongma in her time of need and help her get back on her feet.

This GoFundMe was created by the volunteers from Help Maui Rise for the Storm Kōkua initiative and will directly benefit Tongma Melencheck. Her bank information was added for her to withdraw directly.