June 25 Library Updates/Resources for Our Community

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Altadena Eaton Fire Relief Fund Applications NOW OPEN! Deadline to apply: July 6, 2025.

This Fund has been developed from donations of individuals, businesses and organizations concerned with the recovery of the residents and the community of Altadena. The Altadena Town Council initiated the Fund in partnership with Go Fund Me.

The AERFF Advisory Committee will review all applications that are submitted by July 6, 2025. Grants awarded beginning 7/15/25.

For eligibility requirements and to apply, go to

https://altadenatowncouncil.org/2025/06/altadena-eaton-fire-relief-fund-applications-now-open/

Immigration Resources from National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) & CHIRLA

Know Your Rights (English) | Conozca Sus Derechos Basicos (Español)

Immigration Assistance Referral Line

888-624-4752

Legal Assistance

213-201-3797

NHS Partners with California Housing Finance Agency to promote new Mortgage Program that provides grants up to $20,000 (3 months of mortgage payments) for disaster survivors - ON SITE AT ALTADENA LIBRARY

For Eaton Fire residents, NHS team members will be on site at the Altadena Main Library (600 E. Mariposa) during normal library through Saturday, June 28 to assist residents who want help with their applications. WALK-INS are welcome, or you can make an appointment here.

NHS is here to help you verify whether you are eligible for the program and to apply. Please bring the required documents with you. List of required documents.

New Mortgage Relief Program for Disaster Victims
Apply NOW

On June 12, California is launching the CalAssist Mortgage Fund to provide up to $20,000 to homeowners whose homes were destroyed or left uninhabitable as the result of a fire, flood or other declared disaster between January 2023 and January 2025, including the Eaton fire.

Eligible homeowners can apply for grants covering up to three months of mortgage payments, up to $20,000 total.

Grants up to $20,000 will be available to help eligible homeowners who are displaced due to significant property damage from a qualified disaster.
APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED.
Funds are limited; homeowners should prepare to apply now.
Eligible homeowners can receive grants for three months of mortgage payments, up to $20,000.

Eligibility criteria includes:

Applicants' primary residence was destroyed or is uninhabitable due to a qualified disaster from 01/01/2023 through 01/08/2025
Applicant meets program income limits
Applicant has a mortgage or reverse mortgage
Applicant owns a single-family home, condo or permanently affixed manufactured home (may include up to 4 units)

Funds are limited, so homeowners are encouraged to take the following steps to prepare to apply to the program once the application opens on June 12:

1. Check the list of qualified disasters for this program
2. Confirm the program income limit, which varies by county
3. See if their mortgage servicer is participating
4. Gather required paperwork:
• Mortgage statement
• Bank statements
• Utility bill
• Proof of income
• Homeowner insurance claim or FEMA application (may be needed)

Homeowner grants don't have to be repaid and applying to the program is free. Grants will be sent directly to the eligible homeowner's mortgage servicer. Applications will be reviewed in the order they are submitted, and funds will be awarded until they are exhausted. Grants will be reserved for eligible applicants as long as funds are available.

For in-depth, one-on-one assistance with preparing and completing their application, homeowners can call l-800-501-0019 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additionally, they can access free support and services from HUD certified housing counseling agencies.

More program information, eligibility and the online application can be found at CalAssistMortgageFund.org.

New Wildfire Survivor Support Centers Open

Survivors of the LA fires can access essential services from FEMA, SBA, and select LA County departments at two new survivor support locations found at

Altadena Community Center

730 Altadena Dr., Altadena

One-Stop Rebuilding Center

1828 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles

The centers are open Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm, closed on weekends.

Altadena Meals on Wheels Is Back!

Altadena Meals on Wheels (AMOW) is proud to announce that we are again providing meals to our homebound neighbors after suspending service in the wake of January’s devastating wildfire.

Since 1973, Altadena Meals on Wheels has utilized a caring and dedicated team of volunteers to deliver hot, tasty meals to seniors who are homebound for reasons including illness, post-surgery rehabilitation/convalescence, and/or age, to help them live healthier, more nourished lives and remain independent in the comfort and security of their own homes.

There are no specific eligibility requirements to receive meals -- any Altadena resident in need is welcome to apply. To learn more or to sign up for service, please call us at 626-794-0313.

We are also seeking volunteer drivers to deliver meals along designated routes in Altadena, Monday through Friday. If you have a few hours to spare at least twice per month, we would love to hear from you. Please call 626-794-0313 to get started.

\Altadena Meals on Wheels receives no federal funding and operates solely through the generosity of community partners, private donors and local organizations. Your support makes our work possible. To make a tax-deductible donation, please visit our website at www.altadenamealsonwheels.org.

Property Owners with Fire Debris Who Didn't Opt-In to Government Program Need to Complete Debris Removal by June 30

Private property owners who have opted out of the government-sponsored debris removal program, or did not opt-in to that program, must hire an approved, specialized contractor to complete the work in full compliance with all applicable requirements, regulations and safety standards.

Important Debris Removal Deadlines
🟢 June 30, 2025 - Complete Debris Removal

Fire debris must be removed by June 30, 2025. If cleanup is not completed by this date, the property may be declared a Public Nuisance.

If a property owner fails to meet the above deadline, the County may take steps to remove fire ash and debris from the property; the cost of this debris removal will be charged to the property owner. If not paid, the cost may be recovered through a lien on the property.

Property owners should have received an Eaton and Palisades Fire Debris Removal permit via the County’s EPIC-LA system. This permit allows home and business owners—and their authorized private contractors—to manage their own debris removal efforts while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal safety and environmental standards.

For more information, visit this web page or call the Debris Removal Hotline at 888-479-7328.

Team Rubicon: Chainsaw Operations & Light Debris Removal for Under-Resourced Survivors (time limited resource) 2025

If your property has been affected by recent fires, Team Rubicon is offering no-cost assistance to homeowners with the following services:

Vegetative Debris Removal
Non-Vegetative Debris Removal

*** Structural/ Hardscape/ Concerete Not Included

All services provided are FREE of charge tohomeowners in need.

Team Rubicon is a veteran-led nonprofit organization with a prestigious 4-star rating on Charity Navigator, reflecting its strong accountability, transparency, and financial health.

To fill out the interest form, scan the QR code or click here.

Altadena Community Preservation Fund

Apply Now (must meet program eligibility requirements)

The Altadena Community Preservation Fund is providing Altadena homeowners aged 65+ with bridge assistance to support immediate and mid-term needs. A one-time payment of $15,000 will be awarded to homeowners who meet the eligibility requirements.

Apply now! Assistance will be distributed until funds are exhausted.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

Homeowner experienced a total loss during the Eaton Fire
Homeowner lived within U.S. Census Tracts 4602, 4603.01, 4603.02 and 4610 (visit
altadenatowncouncil.org to learn your census tract)
Homeowner is 65+
Homeowner is uninsured or underinsured, including those on the California FAIR Plan

Apply at https://forwardplatform.com/altadena-community-preservation-fund/ or scan the QR code.

Questions? Email support@forwardplatform.zendesk.com or call (855)582-3973

Altadena Community Preservation Fund flyer

Altadena Community Preservation Fund flyer in Spanish

Free Blood Lead Testing for Wildfire Impacted Communities

Smoke, ash, and debris from wildfires may contain harmful contaminants, including lead. The Department of Public Health (Public Health) is offering FREE blood lead testing for those who may be concerned about exposure to lead from the wildfires.

Visit Your Medical Provider. Ask your doctor for a blood lead test. Testing is covered by most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal.
Go to a Quest Lab for a Free Blood Lead Test. Dial 1-800-LA-4-LEAD to request a free appointment through Quest Labs. Simple, convenient, and confidential.
Call 1-800-LA-4-LEAD (1-800-524-5323) for more information.

Youth@Work

Eaton Fire Impacted Youth

Partner with us through our Youth@Work (Y@W) program to help establish careers for youth in imapcted by the Eaton Fire. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/DEOYouthAtWork

Back in Business Walkabout

June 22-June 29

Altadena

The Altadena Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Back in Business, its volunteer-powered initiative, has launched a second phase of its successful outreach effort with a Walkabout from June 22nd to June 29th along Pasadena’s northern commercial corridors. The weeklong event is central to the program aimed at helping Altadena businesses recover after the Eaton Fire through needs assessment and space reconnaissance for relocation.

A Grassroots Effort Built on Collaboration

Formed in January 2025, Back is Business was designed to streamline and coordinate relocation efforts, rebuild the local business community, and foster long-term economic sustainability—all driven by an army of dedicated volunteers that now number close to one hundred.

Led by Pasadena Planning Commissioner Julianna Delgado, a grassroots Task Force launched Back in Business with the Altadena Chamber of Commerce as a direct response to the mass disruption caused by the Eaton Fire. The initiative relies on a select, collaborative working group of professionals—including local attorneys, planners, architects, and real estate experts with close ties to Altadena. “Businesses are an essential part of a community,” says Delgado, an urban planner with disaster recovery experience. “Their return—through compassion, commitment, and cooperation--- is at the very core of successful rebuilding.”

At the heart of Back in Business is its volunteer outreach program, where trained local volunteers have reached out to connect directly with all impacted businesses—both for-profit and non-profit-- and provide personalized support. Volunteers:

Offer free one-on-one assistance to assess the needs of business owners who have lost their facilities or customers, or both, and, in some cases, also their homes.
Listen and respond to needs of business owners coping with disaster-related trauma.
Build lasting relationships among neighbors aimed at reconnecting businesses with their client base.
Identify potential workspaces and match displaced businesses with relocation opportunities.
Provide businesses with guidance on permits, tenant improvements, and funding resources.

Join the Effort to Rebuild Altadena

Back in Business thrives on community support. Residents are encouraged to volunteer, offer relocation assistance, participate in the space reconnaissance effort, and share resources to help Altadena businesses return stronger than ever.

For more information, to get involved, or to offer available space contact:

Julianna Delgado, PhD, FAICP, Director, “Back in Business," julianna.delgado@sbcglobal.net

or Judy Matthews, President, Altadena Chamber of Commerce, https://www.altadenachamber.org,

Property Tax Relief for Fire Survivors

Wedneday, June 25 • 8-9pm

on Zoom

Live Q&A with LA County Assessor Jeff Prang: Property Tax Relief for Fire Survivors

Your home was damaged or destroyed. What now — financially? As LA County Assessor, Jeff Prang is leading efforts to help fire survivors like us navigate the tax system, and get the relief we’re entitled to. This is your chance to hear directly from him. All are welcome — invite survivor friends and networks.

Seed Library Grand Opening
Thursday, June 26, 3-4:30pm
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

Join us for the grand opening of a seed library at our Loma Alta Park location.
Nina Raj of the Altadena Seed Library will present on seed sharing, and we'll have a seed swap. There will also be lemonade, cookies and giveaways.

It's Not Too Late to File Your Taxes

June 27, 30 & July 1 • 10 AM-4 PM
Community Connect E-Bus at the Altadena Library, 600 E. Mariposa Street

File your taxes at the Community Connect E-Bus. File your taxes for free with an IRS-certified VITA preparer if you earned $67,000 or less in 2024.

No appointment, registration, or sign-up needed - walk-ins are welcome!

If you earned less than $31,950 in 2024, you may qualify for valuable tax credits like the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) - and get thousands of dollars back. People who file taxes with an ITIN may qualify too!

For more information scan the QR code or visit https://www.goldenstateopportunity.org/news/e-bus-tax-filing/

Altadena Revealed Lecture Series: Outlaws of Altadena - The Criminal Prosecutions of Our Colorful Contrarians

Friday, June 27 • 7-9pm

Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa

This lecture will explore an essential layer of Altadena's rich and historic human diversity: its troublemakers. What can they teach us about the meaning of this place, and to what degree are they worth remembering? Subjects include Zeke the Compost Sheik, Paul Little AKA Max Hardcore, and the proprietor of a local steakhouse known for having Richard Feynman as a regular. Gather round! We'll think, laugh, and maybe even squirm. Speaker Hans Allhoff

Registration is required: here. A $10 donation is requested with your registration. All event proceeds will support the mission of The Foothill Catalog Foundation. For those looking for a free admission option, please contact info@foothillcatalog.org and we will get you registered at no cost.

The Foothill Catalog Foundation is happy to present a monthly lecture series and social hour in collaboration with Pasadena Heritage, Altadena Heritage, Bungalow Heaven Landmark District, and the Altadena Historical Society, hosted by Altadena Libraries.

Chicken stands on man's head among many plants. T

Healing Together: Our Children’s Mental Health After the Eaton Fire

Saturday, June 28 • 10am-12pm

Pasadena City College – Creveling Lounge

1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91106

Staff will be on site to provide state and legislative resources. RSVP by scanning the QR code or clicking here. Hosted by Senator Sasha Renée Pérez.

Healing Together: Our Children’s Mental Health After the Eaton Fire flyer

Mind Mode Yoga w/certified instructor Dana Macc
Saturday, June 28 • 10-11am
Main Library Community Room

This session is dedicated to Altadena residents, focusing on restoring balance, promoting healing, and fostering community connection. Through yoga, mindfulness, and somatic experiencing, we aim to create a space where you can relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect. For adults 18+.

Friends of the Altadena Library Used Book Giveaway

Saturday, June 28 • 10am-4pm

Altadena Main Library Parking Lot, 600 E. Mariposa

This giveaway is open ONLY to Altadena residents (must show identification) from 10am-12pm. During that time Eaton Fire survivors can choose up to 75 books for FREE to help replace books that were burned or discarded due to smoke damage.

The event is open to all from 12-4pm. Book resellers are respectfully asked NOT to attend this event, as the focus is to help Eaton Fire survivors.

Participants can make financial donations to the Friends onsite if they’d like.

Jazz in the Park: Michael Haggins "Tribute to Our City"

Saturday, June 28 • 1-3pm

Loma Alta Park

Altadena native Michael Haggins will pay musical tribute to Altadena.

RECONSTRUYENDO JUNTOS: Panel Comunitario de Discusión

Domingo, 29 de junio de 2025 a las 10am

Iglesia Católica del Sagrado Corazón

2889 N Lincoln Ave, Altadena, CA 91001

El Instituto Americano de Arquitectos (AIA) Pasadena Foothill organizará un evento gratuito dirigido a familias de habla hispana afectadas por los incendios, cuyo objetivo es proporcionar información en español para quienes están atravesando el complejo proceso de recuperación.

El evento contará con un panel de profesionales, incluidos un arquitecto, un ingeniero estructural, un contratista, un abogado y un representante con experiencia en financiamiento, quienes guiarán a los asistentes por las distintas etapas del proceso de

reconstrucción.

Los temas incluirán:

Cuándo se necesita un arquitecto o ingeniero, y cuál es su función
Qué debe incluirse en sus dibujos o “planos”
Cómo evaluar a su arquitecto, diseñador y/o ingeniero
Cómo funcionan los permisos y qué esperar del Condado
Cómo comparar propuestas de contratistas y evitar errores communes
Consejos legales para proteger sus derechos y entender los contratos que está firmando
Cómo influye el seguro en el proceso de reconstrucción y qué aspectos tener en cuenta
Alternativas de financiamiento y qué apoyos pueden estar disponibles si tiene seguro insuficiente

Esta sesión tiene como propósito empoderar a nuestra comunidad hispanohablante con información confiable y práctica de profesionales con licencia que conocen bien el proceso de reconstrucción, para que las familias puedan tomar decisiones informadas y evitar o minimizar retrasos innecesarios.

Registro es solicitado pero no requerido para asistir: https://aiapf.org/event-6224095/Registration

Democrats of Pasadena Foothills
Youth Speech Contest

Submission Deadline: June 30, 2025

Event: Saturday, July 12

Memorial Park Amphitheater
(222 Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre)

Children/Teens aged 10-18 are invited to submit their speech!

Submit Your Speech

Altadena Rotary Concerts in the Park

Begin Saturday, July 5, 7-9pm

Loma Alta Park

Join the Altadena Rotary in cooperation with LA County Parks & Recreation for the 28th Annual Concert Series. All concerts are free and start at 7pm at Loma Alta Park, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave., Altadena.

Ending Well Free Workshops for Seniors

Various days and times, class sessions Monday, July 7 on Zoom

These 5 FREE one-hour sessions are presented in a Zoom format and limited to 10 participants. Checklists are provided, covering required documents, your digital world, celebration of life, an ethical will, and more--a roadmap to guide your executor and trustees through their responsibilities settling your affairs.

Ending Well does not promote any religious organization, legal, or financial company. The presenters are volunteers who provide information and support.

For more information or to register, e-mail to endingwellclass@gmail.com

Leadership Pasadena Presents Mariposa Night

Saturday, July 12 •

Resource Fair @ 5:30pm - Beckman Lawn

Storytime @ 7pm Caltech's Beckman Auditorium

Please join us on Saturday, July 12 at 7 pm at Caltech's Beckman Auditorium for a special event for those who live in or love Altadena.

Storytellers will share memories of growing up, raising families, running businesses, building community with their neighbors, and thriving in the unique community Altadena has always been.

Presented by Leadership Pasadena and sponsored by Caltech, the event is free to the public and will be preceded by a 5:30 pm food truck and resource fair event on Beckman lawn featuring local non-profits focused on community well-being.

Those Impacted by Eaton Fire Get Free Tickets Here (deadline 6/20)

Please join us on Saturday, July 12 at 7 pm at Caltech's Beckman Auditorium for a special event for those who live in or love Altadena. Storytellers will share memories of growing up, raising families, running businesses, building community with their neighbors, and thriving in the unique community Altadena has always been. Presented by Leadership Pasadena and sponsored by Caltech, the event is free to the public and will be preceded by a 5:30 pm food truck and resource fair event on Beckman lawn featuring local non-profits focused on community well-being.

LA County Sheriff's Department Altadena Station Community Conversation

Wednesday, July 23, 6-8pm

Altadena Main Library, 600 E. Mariposa

For further information please contact Deputy Balyan at 626-798-1131 or abalyan@lasd.org.

PART & FULL-TIME TEMP JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR FIRE-IMPACTED INDIVIDUALS

IBTU is partnering with HACLA and the Workforce Developmentsystem to offer employmentopportunities at our Relief &Recovery Hub.

Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/joinibtu for more information.

Podcast Explores Eaton Fire & Impact on Altadena

Ann Faison is a North Pasadena resident and local author with the podcast, Are We There Yet, on grief, specifically childhood grief. Her new season explores the Eaton Fire and the impact on our community.

Are We There Yet_Apple Podcasts

Are We There Yet_Spotify

Are We There Yet_Substack