Hawaii's biggest charity fundraiser is asking workers to give $9 million this year, with much of it going to families still recovering from Hurricane Lala.

• Aloha United Way launched its yearly workplace giving drive with a rally in downtown Honolulu.
• The money goes to housing, food, education, and helping families stay financially stable.
• Nonprofits say hurricane-hit communities need basics right now — food, hygiene supplies, and gas.
• Storm damage hit across the state, not just one area, stretching the need wider than usual.
• Smaller groups depend on the campaign, including one that helps kids with disabilities get schooling.

Outlook: The drive runs through the end of the year, so most of the money will be raised over the coming months.