Scott Taylor, managing owner of Kaya Island Eats in Key West, grew up in Lahaina, Hawaii and has been devastated by the destruction wrought by last month’s wildfire.
Taylor has partnered with the nonprofit Key West Cares to host a fundraiser starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29.
The Polynesian-themed party will take place within the EmPOURium, 618 Duval St., where Kaya Island Eats is located. The event will feature island-style food, tropical drinks, live local music and a silent auction.All proceeds will benefit the Maui Strong Foundation.
”I grew up in Lahaina and called it home until 1996,” Taylor said. “I have lifelong close friends who have lost everything. My daughter, cousins, aunts and uncles all live on Maui. When I dream at night, my dreams all take place in Lahaina and the surrounding areas.”
This fundraising event will be a celebration of what makes Key West and Maui special — islanders coming together at a time of need to help one another. Taylor has called Key West his second island home for the past 27 years.
Tickets are $75 for VIP admission that includes free drinks, a commemorative shirt and buffet dinner. General admission tickets for $50 include the entry fee, a cash bar and dinner. Tickets are available at the door or online at keystix.com.
Guests who are unable to attend but wish to contribute may contact Taylor directly at 305-395-0213.
Scott Taylor, who owns Kaya Island Eats in Key West, grew up surfing in Lahaina, Hawaii and is now hosting a Sept. 29 fundraiser to help his hometown in the wake of last month’s devastating wildfire. CONTRIBUTED 
Downtown Lahaina, Hawaii is seen before last month’s devastating wildfire. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed 
Search and rescue soldiers and airmen attached to a Hawaii National Guard unit assist Maui County and state officials in the search and recovery efforts of Lahaina on Aug. 10. SGT. ANDREW JACKSON/Hawaii National Guard 
Ancient banyan trees in the center of Lahaina are now reduced to ash. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed
