Japan earthquake and tsunami survivors visiting Hawaii to get away from the destruction and grief are sharing poignant stories of their experiences.

About 70 survivors of the disaster have traveled to Maui through the Aloha Initiative, a program that has raised about $150,000 for Japanese citizens to stay with Hawaii host families for several months. The group is trying to raise more money to bring in more survivors before the summer ends.

The Maui News reports some survivors recently spoke at Kahului Hongwanji Mission.

Daisuke Tanaka recalled losing his wife and 2-month-old daughter. He now wants to honor his wife’s memory by scattering her ashes in the ocean off Maui, an island she loved visiting.

Aloha Initiative organizers say survivors can stay up to 90 days, depending on travel visas.