Direct Cash Aid Offered to Older Adults Impacted by Eaton Fire

PASADENA, Calif., April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Older adults who lost homes, possessions and stability in the 2025 Eaton Fire are receiving critical support thanks to a partnership between the California Community Foundation (CCF) and Pasadena Village.

After CCF awarded Pasadena Village a grant to provide direct cash assistance to wildfire survivors, Pasadena Village appointed a recovery team of nine older adults who thoughtfully designed and carried out an equitable process to distribute the funds.

In February, the team finalized awards for 61 senior residents displaced by the Eaton Fire, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $8,175.

"Pasadena Village is deeply grateful to the California Community Foundation for standing with our community in this moment of need," said Katie Brandon, executive director of Pasadena Village. "Many older adults affected by the wildfires lost not only their homes, but their stability. This funding is helping older survivors move forward and know that they are supported, and not forgotten, as they rebuild their lives."

More than 40 of recipients identify as Black or African American. Fifty-two lost their primary residence entirely, while nine are still waiting to return to homes severely damaged by smoke and ash.

John Jackson, an 80-year-old Altadena resident, lost his home of 50 years in the Eaton Fire. Destroyed was the outdoor kitchen where he gathered with friends, furniture he crafted by hand and a workshop filled with woodworking tools — none of which were insured.

"The Village has offered me unbelievable support," Jackson said. "While most people needed computers and electronics, I needed saws and hand and power tools to rebuild my storage shed."

For Jackson, woodworking is more than a hobby — it's a source of purpose and a way to rebuild what insurance cannot replace, from shelving and drawers to furniture.

With Pasadena Village assistance, Jackson plans to rebuild his home and workshop and replace essential tools such as a table saw, router and planer. He also hopes to rebuild fencing and restore his patio.

Beyond financial support, Pasadena Village continues to connect older adults with one another and with resources as they navigate the long road to recovery — ensuring survivors are not facing the aftermath of the Eaton Fire alone.

About Pasadena Village

Pasadena Village offers a place for those who want to age-in-place to explore their interests, prepare for their future, connect to each other, share resources, and be involved in the community. For more information, visit PasadenaVillage.org or call 626-765-6037.

About the California Community Foundation (CCF):
Since 1915, CCF has served Los Angeles County as a public charitable organization dedicated to leading systemic change that strengthens communities. Managing $2.3 billion in assets and overseeing 1,900 charitable foundations, funds and legacies, CCF's mission is to invest in, partner with and amplify the power of community toward a good life. For more information, visit www.calfund.org.

Contact
Gilien Silsby
California Community Foundation
213-500-8673

SOURCE California Community Foundation