Saturday, January 11, 2025

FEMA Administrator Tours Eaton Fire Damage As Rep. Chu Releases Aid Guide

Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) released an Eaton Fire Resource Guide for constituents affected by the devastating Eaton Fire following a tour of damaged areas with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell in Altadena and Pasadena neighborhoods.

“I was absolutely heartbroken touring the destruction and devastation across communities impacted by the Eaton Fire in my congressional district,” said Rep. Chu. “In Altadena and northern Pasadena, a deadly blazing wall of fire took our neighbors’ lives and destroyed the structures that provided stability to countless families’ hopes, dreams, and memories.”

During official briefings, officials reported the fire has destroyed approximately 5,000 structures and displaced an estimated 20,000 people in the area.

Major community institutions, including the Altadena Community Church, Mariposa Junction, Elliot Arts Magnet Academy, Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center, and Masjib Al-Taqwa mosque, are now “unrecognizable and potentially unsalvageable,” according to Rep. Chu.

The Major Disaster Declaration by President Biden covers not only current damage but any future wind-driven fire that meets severity thresholds in Los Angeles County. Federal assistance is immediately available through multiple channels. Affected residents can apply for aid through www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA, or via the FEMA App.

Available relief includes:

• Up to 14 days of displacement assistance for hotel costs
• $770 for essential items
• Direct grants for essential costs, medical bills, and car repairs
• Small Business Administration low-interest loans for business owners and homeowners

While winds are expected to decrease over the weekend, officials warn of returning strong winds on Monday.

California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and FEMA will establish local assistance centers and deploy disaster survivor assistance teams to help residents access relief and local support services.

“It’s my hope wildfire and extreme wind conditions will not worsen to the extent that they threaten the round-the-clock heroic work protecting residential and business areas,” continued Rep. Chu. “With winds expected to pick up Monday again though, Angelenos around the county cannot let their guards down: monitor local officials’ evacuation orders, have a to-go bag at the ready, and flee if and when evacuation orders come down.”

Rep. Chu concluded with strong words about misinformation surrounding the crisis: “To politicians and agents of chaos around the country peddling lies and misinformation about our crisis: Do better. Our priority should be people’s safety, not scoring cheap political points on the backs of so much suffering.”

The guide aims to help residents access federal disaster relief and support services in the wake of massive destruction that has left thousands homeless.