Ten months after the Eaton fire destroyed thousands of homes in Altadena, a showcase of modular and prefabricated housing designs is offering a glimpse of what’s possible for survivors who seek to return to their properties more quickly and affordably than traditional rebuilds.
Seven months after evacuating from the Palisades fire, Lena Latiff returned to her beloved Casa Gateway affordable housing community overlooking Sunset Boulevard. “I keep thanking God I'm home,” said Latiff, 70. “I didn't think it was going to happen for more than a year. But then they came in and did the work for us, which is a big blessing.” Latiff was referring to crews who cleaned up dozens of units that sustained smoke and ash damage. The project was made possible by several nonprofit organizations supported by grants from the California Community Foundation (CCF).
Sherman Oaks-based nonprofit The Change Reaction has given out more than $13.3 million in direct cash aid and helped more than 7,000 families impacted by the January fires. The California Community Foundation supported the organization with a grant from its Wildfire Recovery Fund earlier this year.
As ICE raids sow fear and depression throughout communities, CIELO has met the moment with home deliveries of food, online mental health workshops and social gatherings to bring solace and sustenance to Indigenous residents – many of whom already struggle with isolation.