Wednesday, February 5, 2025

City Issues Statement On Convention Center Shelter Closure

Officials address concerns about February transition plans

The City of Pasadena issued a statement Wednesday addressing the planned closure of its Convention Center emergency shelter, emphasizing that accurate information is crucial during the transition process.

City of Pasadena Public Information Officer Lisa Derderian released the communication, which specifically addressed concerns about misinformation regarding the shelter’s planned February 8th transition date.

“In moments like these, accurate information is critical. Misinformation and rumors don’t help the healing process. What does help is knowing that our community is here to support one another, that resources are available, and that no one is facing this alone,” Derderian stated.

The statement outlined the city’s ongoing commitment to shelter residents since the January 7th Eaton Fire, detailing the American Red Cross’s role in managing the facility since January 11th. According to Derderian, shelter residents with questions can reach out to Red Cross staff on-site “who are there to listen, to guide, and to provide the latest information and assistance.”

Below is the full text of the City’s statement:

“From the very moment the Eaton Fire struck our community on January 7th, the City of Pasadena and the Pasadena Convention Center have been focused on one thing: helping those affected recover and rebuild. This has been our highest priority because we know that behind every number is a person-a neighbor, a family, someone who has been through an incredibly difficult experience.

On January 11th, the City entrusted the management of the shelter to the American Red Cross, an organization with decades of experience in disaster relief, shelter operations, and mass care. Their mission is clear-to ensure that every shelter resident has a safe place to stay, and to help them take the next steps toward stability.

Transitions are always part of the shelter process, and the Red Cross is dedicated to making sure no one is left without options. They will continue providing shelter and support until every household has a plan in place for what comes next.  And the City remains fully committed to working hand in hand with the Red Cross, as well as local nonprofits and community partners, to provide assistance every step of the way.  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.

In moments like these, accurate information is critical. Misinformation and rumors don’t help the healing process. What does help is knowing that our community is here to support one another, that resources are available, and that no one is facing this alone. If any shelter residents have questions, they can reach out to Red Cross staff on-site, who are there to listen, to guide, and to provide the latest information and assistance.”