First Responders Help Rebuild Altadena Homes Lost in Eaton Fire (Photo – Victoria Knapp)
Firefighters and sheriff’s deputies traded emergency gear for construction tools Tuesday, June 16, joining San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity in an effort to rebuild homes destroyed by last year’s devastating Eaton Fire. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna also attended the event, showing his support for the rebuilding effort and the families affected by the wildfire.
By Rena Kurlander
Personnel from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Altadena Station and the Los Angeles County Fire Department worked alongside Habitat staff and volunteers at a rebuilding site on West Terrace Street from 10 a.m. to noon. The effort was part of a community service initiative aimed at helping local families recover from the wildfire.
The volunteer build brought together deputies led by Altadena Station Capt. Ethan Marquez, firefighters from LACoFD Station 11 under the leadership of Capt. John Knowles, and Sheriff Robert Luna, who visited the site to support volunteers and meet with project partners. The teams assisted with construction at a property where San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity is building a new home and accessory dwelling unit for Rosa and her family.
“Being in Altadena alongside my colleagues and the team at SGV Habitat drives home what Community Impact Day is all about,” Marquez said. “The work doesn’t stop here — we’re supporting families, including our own colleagues, as they recover from last year’s wildfires. That sense of responsibility to our neighbors, and to each other, is what creates lasting community impact.”
Assistant Fire Chief Patrick Sprengel said the department’s commitment to the community extends beyond emergency response.
“Our job doesn’t end when the flames are out,” Sprengel said. “Rebuilding this community is part of our commitment to the people of Altadena. We stood with residents during the fire, and we’re proud to stand with them now as they rebuild their homes and their futures.”
San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity officials said the partnership reflects years of support from local first responders.
“We’re grateful to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Fire Department for all they do each and every day and for their continued partnership and years of dedicated volunteer service with SGV Habitat,” said Bryan Wong, chief executive officer of San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity. “Their ongoing commitment is helping build a stronger, brighter future for everyone in Altadena.”
The Terrace Street project is one of several rebuilding efforts underway following the Eaton Fire, which damaged homes and displaced families throughout the Altadena community. Habitat for Humanity broke ground on the property several months ago and continues to work with volunteers and community partners to help residents return home.
Tuesday’s build highlighted the ongoing recovery effort and the role local first responders continue to play long after the emergency phase has ended. Sheriff Luna’s presence underscored the Sheriff’s Department’s continued commitment to supporting Altadena residents as recovery efforts move forward.
(L-R) Sheriff Robert Luna signs a wall, Sheriff Luna with Chief Deputy O’Brien, Shriff Luna with Keni Arts and Captain Marquez (Photos – Victoria Knapp)
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