For weeks following the Eaton fire, the Rose Bowl served as a command center for thousands of first responders as they battled to contain the devastating blaze.
On Wednesday, March 19, representatives from more than 80 community groups, nonprofits and local government agencies gathered in front of the venerable stadium to announce the launch of the Eaton Fire Collaborative.
The goal of the partnership is to provide support to those in Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre during what will be a lengthy rebuilding process.
“Only the village saves the village,” Jose Madera, director of the Pasadena Community Job Center, said in Spanish and in English.
Along with the job center, the collaboration is made up of dozens of organizations including the Clergy Community Coalition, the Foothill Catalog Foundation, San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity and the Partnership for Children, Youth and Families. The goal to gather trusted and vetted organizations that residents can rely on during every aspect of the ongoing recovery process.
“We’re committed to minimizing duplication of efforts while centering the voices and needs of those most impacted by the fires,” Collaborate Pasadena Executive Director G Albert said.
Altadena Town Council Chair Victoria Knapp urged the region to keep the Eaton fire victims in their hearts as the difficult work to rebuild and recover continues.
“As we all grieve what was lost we must also remember that we are not grieving alone. Our community has been devastated but in the midst of this devastation we have seen something powerful,” Knapp said. “The unwavering support of those who refuse to let us suffer in silence.”