The Eaton Fire Collaborative has formed a Long-Term Recovery Group to assist survivors of the deadly blaze, the organization announced Tuesday.
The LTRG aims to connect local nonprofit organizations, government agencies, faith-based groups and community leaders to support survivors on the path to recovery.
Valerie Nash & Associates, a consulting firm that works with communities recovering from disasters, has been selected to help with the formation of the LTRG board, according to the collaborative.
“The aftermath of a disaster like the Eaton Fire goes far beyond the initial emergency response,” Jill Hawkins, a founding member of the collaborative, said in a statement. “Recovery can take months or even years, and it requires a unified, compassionate effort. The Long-Term Recovery Group is here to walk with our neighbors through that journey.”
The LTRG’s focal point is helping fire-affected residents and businesses receive equitable access to the resources, services and support they need to rebuild their lives. Through collaboration and streamlined recovery efforts, the group aims to address unmet necessities and help foster long-term resilience in the community.
“We want to thank the Pasadena Community Foundation for its generous support in funding the work to help establish an LTRG board — your contribution is instrumental to our progress,” Christy Zamani, executive director of the consulting firm Day One and a collaborative member, said in a statement. “We also invite organizations and community groups supporting individuals and families affected by the fire to join this collaborative effort.”
The LTRG’s long-term goals include identifying and addressing gaps in services and support, coordinating case management and resource distribution, advocating for survivors’ needs with public and private partners, and promoting trauma-informed and culturally competent approaches to recovery, according to the collaborative.
To learn more about the Eaton Fire Collaborative, visit EatonFireCollaborative.org, email EatonFireCollaborative@gmail.com or see the group’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Collaborative member Leigh Gluck is available at 626-644-6956.
The collaborative was formed in response to the Eaton Fire to coordinate emergency response, community support, and recovery efforts. Comprised of local partners committed to healing and rebuilding, the Collaborative continues to lead efforts that promote long-term recovery and community resilience.
The Eaton Fire broke out Jan. 7 amid fierce winds and scorched over 14,000 acres in Altadena and nearby areas, destroyed or damaged thousands of properties and caused the deaths of 18 people, according to Cal Fire. The cause is still under investigation.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Southern California Edison claiming the utility’s equipment sparked the blaze.