Nearly 300 Eaton fire victims face relocation as the Red Cross shelter at Pasadena Convention Center prepares to close for upcoming events.
Quick Takes
- Red Cross to close Pasadena Convention Center shelter and relocate fire victims
- Convention Center requested facility back for scheduled events, including “America’s Got Talent”
- New shelter location closer to Altadena being sought to provide more normalcy for residents
- 252 people remain in shelter; Red Cross committed to ensuring housing plans for all
- Environmental Protection Agency removing hazardous materials from fire-damaged properties
Red Cross Faces Shelter Transition Challenges
The American Red Cross is navigating a complex situation as it prepares to relocate nearly 300 victims of the devastating Eaton fire from their temporary shelter at the Pasadena Convention Center. The move comes as the center requests the return of its facility to accommodate previously scheduled events, including the popular TV show “America’s Got Talent” and the NAACP Image Awards.
The Red Cross, known for its humanitarian efforts during crises, is now faced with the challenge of finding suitable alternative housing for the fire victims while ensuring a smooth transition. The organization has emphasized its commitment to the well-being of those affected by the Eaton fire, which destroyed over 9,400 structures, primarily homes in Altadena.
Balancing Humanitarian Needs and Venue Commitments
The Pasadena Convention Center’s request for the return of its facility highlights the delicate balance between providing emergency shelter and maintaining regular business operations. City officials have set a goal of February 8th for transitioning the shelter, citing contractual obligations to upcoming events.
“While February 8th was set as the goal for transitioning the shelter at the Convention Center, we want to make it clear that no one will be left behind or shut out,” stated the city of Pasadena in a recent announcement.
This statement underscores the city’s commitment to working alongside the Red Cross to ensure that all evacuees have suitable housing options during and after the transition. The Red Cross has deployed a team of shelter transition workers to identify and address any barriers that shelter residents may face in moving to the next stage of their recovery.
Seeking Solutions Closer to Home
As the Red Cross works to find a new shelter location, they are prioritizing a site closer to Altadena, where many of the evacuees resided before the fire. This strategic move aims to provide a sense of normalcy and facilitate easier access to familiar surroundings for those affected.
“Most of them are Altadena residents, so we’re trying to move them somewhere where they’re closer to home so they can get back to a little more normalcy before we fully close our shelters,” explained Angel Sauceda, a Red Cross representative.
The organization is actively collaborating with local services and maintaining open lines of communication with each resident to ensure a seamless transition. Case workers are assisting each household in finding alternative housing solutions, emphasizing that no one will be left without options during this challenging time.
Environmental Concerns and Ongoing Support
As the relocation efforts continue, the Environmental Protection Agency is addressing another critical aspect of the fire’s aftermath by removing hazardous materials from damaged properties in Altadena. This crucial step is necessary before residents can safely return to their neighborhoods.
The Red Cross remains committed to providing shelter and support until permanent housing becomes available for all those affected by the Eaton fire. As the situation evolves, the organization continues to demonstrate its adaptability and dedication to serving those in need, even as it navigates the complexities of balancing humanitarian aid with the resumption of normal activities in shared public spaces.
