On the one-year anniversary of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, Altadena became a place of both deep reflection and determined resolve.
The Eaton Fire Survivors Network hosted a powerful 90-minute media gathering that brought together fire survivors, community leaders, nonprofit partners, and elected officials to mark a year since the Eaton Fire forever changed lives and neighborhoods. The event was led by Eaton Fire Survivors Network CEO Joy Chen, whose ability to convene a broad and honest conversation underscored both the strength of the community and the frustrations that continue to shape daily life for many survivors.
Throughout the gathering, survivors shared deeply personal stories of resilience—and of systems that have failed to respond adequately. Some described losing their homes, exhausting their savings while renting temporary housing, and now facing the heartbreaking possibility of living out of their cars. Others spoke about navigating exhaustive remediation requirements, submitting complete documentation, and receiving initial insurance appraisals—only to have adjusters reassigned and earlier assessments revoked. In one case, a homeowner described how a new insurance adjuster from State Farm dismissed prior findings and suggested that a fresh coat of paint would resolve damage, despite never visiting the home or reviewing the submitted remediation paperwork.
These stories of insurance confusion, inconsistency, and perceived indifference formed a central theme of the discussion. Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger addressed these concerns directly, explaining that such experiences were among the reasons the County initiated an investigation into State Farm’s handling of Eaton Fire insurance claims. Her remarks were met with a mix of appreciation and urgency from survivors eager for accountability and transparency.
Despite the frustration and grief that filled the room, the gathering was ultimately a testament to community. Joy Chen’s leadership created space not only for anger and loss, but also for solidarity and shared purpose. Miguel Santana, CEO of the California Community Foundation, spoke to the essential role of community-based organizations in long-term recovery. He noted that while nonprofits have collectively raised nearly one billion dollars in support since the fires, the true cost of making survivors whole will require tens of billions. This, he emphasized, is not charity—it is compensation that people who lost everything are rightfully entitled to.
As challenging as many of the stories were, the prevailing message was unmistakable: Altadena is not for sale. Neighbors are supporting neighbors. Survivors are advocating for one another. Organizations including the Eaton Fire Survivors Network, the California Community Foundation, and many local partners are actively working across short-, mid-, and long-term recovery efforts to ensure that Altadena remains a community where people can rebuild their lives.
MySafe:LA attended the gathering with REBUILD:LA podcast host Cameron Barrett, Executive Director David Barrett, and videographer Eddie Sandoval. Listening to these stories firsthand reinforced MySafe:LA’s ongoing commitment to the Altadena community. In the weeks ahead, MySafe:LA will be sharing multiple initiatives focused on recovery, preparedness, and community resilience—efforts grounded in the belief that rebuilding is not only about structures, but about trust, dignity, and the power of community to move forward together.
