Monday, June 23, 2025

San Gabriel Valley Habitat Earns Landmark Grant From Altadena Builds Back Foundation

Three generations of the Wood family lost their homes in the Eaton Fire. [PCF photo]

In a major boost for community recovery, the Altadena Builds Back Foundation has awarded a record-breaking $4.55 million grant—its largest ever through the Pasadena Community Foundation—to the San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity. The funds will help reconstruct 22 homes destroyed in the devastating Eaton Fire, offering a path forward for longtime residents of West Altadena facing financial hardship.

“Pasadena Community Foundation and its supporting Altadena Builds Back Foundation believe that recovery must begin with—and be led by—our community,” said Candice Kim, ABBF Project Director.

The grant will assist homeowners whose average age is 72 and who have lived in their homes for more than three decades.

San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity will lead the three-year rebuild project, offering comprehensive case management and financial support.

“This is not just about rebuilding homes—it’s about restoring hope, stability, and a future,” said Bryan Wong, CEO of SGV Habitat. “These homes represented generations of resilience and legacy.”

The foundation aims to help homeowners who need significant additional funding to supplement insurance payouts. Through collaboration with Los Angeles County and Foothill Catalog, the organization has already submitted pre-approved home and Accessory Dwelling Unit designs to accelerate construction timelines.

Established in March, the Altadena Builds Back Foundation focuses on long-term recovery, prioritizing the preservation of Altadena’s demographic and socioeconomic diversity. The grant marks a critical step in supporting residents displaced by the devastating fire.