Victims of the recent Eaton fire, which devastated parts of Altadena and surrounding areas, have been relocated from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium to a new shelter at the Pamela Park gymnasium in Duarte. This move, facilitated by the American Red Cross and local officials, comes as the number of evacuees has significantly decreased from a peak of approximately 1,500 to around 250 individuals currently residing in the shelter.
The Pasadena Civic Auditorium, known for hosting events such as America’s Got Talent and various concerts for nearly a century, is set to be returned to the city by early February. This transition is part of a broader plan to streamline shelter operations as the need for emergency housing diminishes. Pasadena spokesperson Lisa Derderian noted that the goal was to consolidate the remaining residents into a smaller facility that could better serve their needs.
The Eaton fire, which ignited on January 7, has had a catastrophic impact, destroying over 9,400 homes and structures and claiming the lives of 17 individuals. In addition to the destruction in Altadena, the Palisades fire on the Westside also wreaked havoc, destroying nearly 7,000 structures and resulting in 12 fatalities. The scale of the devastation has prompted a concerted response from local, state, and federal agencies to assist those affected.
In Duarte, residents of the new shelter will continue to receive essential services, including meals, mental health support, and assistance with health-related issues. Red Cross transition specialists are on hand to help evacuees secure transportation and develop plans for more permanent housing. They are also connecting families with federal, state, and county resources to aid in their recovery.
L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger emphasized the importance of supporting those impacted by the fire, stating that her office is committed to ensuring access to critical resources as families begin to rebuild their lives. She has also called on local property owners to offer rental opportunities to fire victims, highlighting the urgent need for housing in the aftermath of the disaster.
The Red Cross and L.A. County Development Authority are actively seeking one- and two-bedroom rentals within a ten-mile radius of the fire zone, particularly in Pasadena, Glendale, and Monrovia. Barger noted the challenges many families face in stabilizing their lives while dealing with the aftermath of the fire, urging community members to assist those in need.
As the recovery efforts continue, the community remains focused on rebuilding and healing, with hopes that those affected can find the support and resources necessary to move forward.