We are grateful to the community members and organizations who have partnered with regional centers across the greater Los Angeles region to continue support for impacted individuals and families. In reflection of the last year of response and recovery, Yvonne Gratianne, Communications & Public Engagement Officer for the San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center, shares the following message:
On January 7, 2025, San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center (SG/PRC) became aware that there was a large and quick- spreading fire in the Eaton Canyon area. The fire quickly intensified and became a threat to the residents of Altadena and the surrounding communities.
As evacuation orders and emergency alerts were issued by local law enforcement, SG/PRC activated our own internal “incident command structure” team. The team would serve as the primary point of contact and coordination of our agency’s support efforts. This team helped keep staff, individuals and their families who receive our services, and service providers updated with important information and available resources.
It was the start of 25 days of excruciating uncertainty. By the time the fire was finally extinguished, an entire community would have suffered immeasurable loss and devastation.
Emotions were running high during this time. SG/PRC staff worked with service providers and local agencies to monitor the change in weather conditions. Our service coordinators made it a priority to check in on as many families as they could. Sharing critical information and resources became vital.
Community Support
Within a few days our agency organized an emergency drive. People who responded to this call did so generously. We received essential items such as food, hygiene supplies, diapers, clothing, blankets, towels, and so much more. The response from the community far surpassed our expectations. Many people wanted to help in some way, even those without any ties to our center.
This emergency drive quickly turned into a full distribution center. In the weeks to come it would become a critical lifeline for families that were evacuated. Many of the evacuees left their homes with only the clothes they were wearing. Many families later shared that having this place to check in and get these essential items allowed them to process the devastation that had changed their lives. As they dealt with the stress of not knowing how to move forward, this distribution center gave them hope.
On January 23, 2025, SG/PRC hosted an Eaton Wildfire Resource & Recovery Fair. The event brought together essential service providers and supports in one place to support families and to help them take next steps. Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), mental health specialists, disability advocacy groups, transportation services, and family resource organizations were present. It was a true collaboration of our community partners, and it reflected the shared commitment to support one another.
One-Year Anniversary
As we acknowledge the one-year anniversary of the Eaton Fire, SG/PRC extends our sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff, service providers, first responders, city officials, and community partners. Your collaboration and commitment helped support families during this challenging time.
We are forever grateful to everyone who supported our Eaton Fire Relief Account. Thank you for your donations and heartfelt messages.
In this past year, families and service providers affected by the fires have shown remarkable resilience. While families continue to heal and navigate through the challenges of losing their homes and belongings, we see their hope, compassion, and perseverance.
Together, we will continue to move forward, supporting our community as it heals and rebuilds.
If you would like to make a difference and make a donation to the Eaton Canyon Fire Relief and Recovery Fund to support families served by SG/PRC, please use one of the following options:
- Option 1: Scan the following QR Code:
- Option 2 – Via Check, payable to the Richard D. Davis Foundation
- Mailing Address: 75 Rancho Camino Drive, Pomona, CA 91766
- Note: Please write Eaton Canyon Fire Relief & Recovery Fund in the memo portion.
If you are a family served by the San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center and continue to face challenges related to the Eaton Fire, please reach out to your service coordinator at (909) 620-7722.
Watch this video from SG/PRC, reflecting on the fires and recognizing those who have supported their efforts this last year.