Saturday, November 8, 2025

Local Businesses Joins Wildfire Recovery Grant Recipients

Ten small businesses across Southern California—including one in Pasadena and three previously in Altadena—have received a second round of wildfire recovery grants totaling $400,000, according to a press release issued Thursday by Steadfast LA and Banc of California.

The funding is part of Steadfast LA’s Small Business Initiative, launched in August to support businesses impacted by the January wildfires in Altadena, Pasadena, Malibu and Pacific Palisades. Banc of California seeded the program with a $1 million contribution through its Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund. Steadfast LA provided additional financial and operational support.

Altadena Beverage and Market, located in Pasadena despite its name, was among the ten recipients selected for this round. The grants—up to $50,000 each—are intended to help businesses reopen, restore jobs and stabilize operations following the wildfires, which caused widespread damage and economic disruption, including steep declines in customer traffic due to resident displacement.

“This initiative is about standing shoulder to shoulder with small business owners who define the character and strength of our neighborhoods,” said Rick Caruso, founder and chairman of Steadfast LA, in the press release.

Jared Wolff, chairman and CEO of Banc of California, said the bank’s involvement reflects its commitment to local communities. “By helping local entrepreneurs rebuild after these wildfires, we’re strengthening the foundation of the communities that make Los Angeles such a dynamic place to live and work,” Wolff said.

Other grant recipients include Beach Side Café / Upstage Catering, Bulgarini Gelato Artigianale, The Palisades Dentists, Palisades Garden Café, Juicy Ladies, V’s Restaurant + Bar, Pacific Palisades Veterinary Center, Vittorio’s and Knolls Pharmacy. The businesses span sectors including restaurants, cafes, dental offices, pharmacies and veterinary centers. Some were destroyed or severely damaged, while others experienced significant economic setbacks.

This round follows Steadfast LA’s first distribution of grants in September, when three Altadena businesses received funding. In total, the initiative has awarded $525,000 in direct support to small businesses affected by the disaster.

Steadfast LA also released a video featuring grant recipients discussing how the funding will aid their recovery and help restore a sense of normalcy. The nonprofit was founded by Caruso to accelerate recovery efforts in wildfire-affected areas. More information about the initiative is available at SteadfastLA.com..