Grants Available for Eaton Fire Survivors As Recovery Fund Opens Applications

Altadena, June 25, 2025 (Photo – Melissa Michelson)

The Altadena Town Council, in partnership with GoFundMe, has officially launched the Altadena Eaton Fire Recovery Fund (AEFRF). The fund is now open for applications from individuals and families directly impacted by the fire that swept through the community on January 7, 2025.

By Rena Kurlander

One-Time Grants to Support Recovery

Thanks to generous contributions from individuals, businesses, and local organizations, the AEFRF will provide one-time grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. These grants are intended to support a wide range of recovery needs, from essentials like food, rent, and transportation to remediation efforts and the rebuilding of home-based businesses.

Eligibility and How to Apply

To be eligible, applicants must have been residents of Altadena on the day of the fire and must have been adversely affected. Only one adult per household may apply. The deadline to submit applications is July 6, 2025.

Applications can be submitted online at eatonfirefund.org. Paper applications are available upon request by contacting Milissa Marona at milissa.marona@altadenatowncouncil.org. Completed paper applications should be returned to:

Milissa Marona
C/O Altadena Community Center
730 E Altadena Dr.
Altadena, CA 91001

The AEFRF Advisory Committee will begin reviewing applications immediately after the deadline. Grant awards are expected to begin on July 15, 2025.

Flexible Aid for a Community in Recovery

The AEFRF was designed with flexibility in mind, recognizing that each household is facing unique recovery challenges. Grant funds may be used for a variety of needs, such as temporary housing, security deposits, or essential supplies.

Jeannine Bogaard, Vice President of Community Impact at the Pasadena Community Foundation, one of the fund’s major contributors, emphasized the importance of this initiative:

Pasadena Community Foundation has directed its Eaton Fire relief funding to local nonprofits that are on the frontlines of fire recovery. We know, however, that individuals and families are also in grave need of resources, so we were very grateful to see the formation of the Altadena Eaton Fire Recovery Fund and to provide flexible funding for impacted families. This is a long and collaborative effort, and we thank the Altadena Town Council for coming to the aid of our neighbors.”

How Funds Will Be Distributed

Approved applicants will receive their grants either through GoFundMe accounts or via VISA e-gift cards delivered by email. While not required, recipients may be invited to share their stories to help illustrate the Fund’s impact on the Altadena community.

For more information, or to apply, visit eatonfirefund.org.