Hannah Kobayashi’s Family Refunding Those Who Donated to Her Search Fund

The Kobayashi family is offering refunds to donors who contributed nearly $50,000 in their search for Hannah Kobayashi after she was found in Mexico, a month after disappearing in what authorities have described as a voluntary departure.

The emotional saga surrounding Hannah Kobayashi’s disappearance has come to a close. On Wednesday, Dec. 11, the 30-year-old from Hawaii was located safe in Mexico, ending weeks of fear and speculation about her well-being. In an update posted on the family’s fundraiser page, Hannah’s sister, Sydni Kobayashi, shared that donors could request refunds for contributions made to assist in the search efforts. “We are turning donations off, and any donor who would like a refund can submit a claim by December 18th, and it will be honored,” Sydni wrote.

Hannah, who was reported missing on Nov. 11 after failing to board a connecting flight from Los Angeles to New York City, had traveled from Maui before unexpectedly going off the grid. Her disappearance sparked fears of potential foul play, with her family raising concerns about kidnapping or human trafficking.

The Los Angeles Police Department later determined that Hannah had voluntarily traveled to Tijuana on Nov. 12, crossing the southern border alone. Investigators found no evidence of foul play. Despite this, her family initially disputed the authorities’ findings and continued their own search efforts.

Funds from the nearly $50,000 raised through a GoFundMe campaign were allocated for transportation, search and rescue operations, temporary housing, and spreading public awareness about Hannah’s case. The family also faced another devastating blow during their search: Hannah’s father, Ryan Kobayashi, tragically died by suicide last month in Los Angeles.

“This family has been more than above board with their intentions, with their expenses. Everything’s backed up with receipts,” attorney Sara Azari, who represents Hannah’s sister and mother, Brandi Yee, previously told PEOPLE.

In a statement released by Azari, the family thanked supporters while requesting privacy. “This past month has been an unimaginable ordeal for our family, and we kindly ask for privacy as we take the time to heal and process everything we have been through,” they shared. Hannah’s sister and mother expressed their gratitude, stating, “Your kindness and concern have meant the world to us.”

The family has declined to release further details about Hannah’s circumstances or her time in Mexico. LAPD investigators confirmed they were notified of her discovery but emphasized that she was not obligated to communicate with law enforcement.