Fire Victims Evicted as Major TV Events Push Shelter to the Brink

As the Pasadena Convention Center prepares for major events, nearly 300 displaced residents from the Eaton fire face the concerning prospect of relocation by the American Red Cross.

Key Takeaways

• The Red Cross will close its temporary shelter at Pasadena Convention Center and relocate nearly 300 people affected by the Eaton fire to a new location closer to Altadena.
• The exact timing and location of the new shelter are not yet determined, but the Red Cross will continue to provide shelter until permanent housing is available.
• The Civic Auditorium Complex has requested the facility be returned for events scheduled in February.
• The Eaton fire destroyed at least 9,400 structures, primarily homes in Altadena.
• The Pasadena Convention Center plans event resumption like the “America’s Got Talent” filming and NAACP Image Awards.

Red Cross’s Challenge and Response

The Red Cross is navigating the urgent need to relocate nearly 300 people seeking refuge following the Eaton fire, after the Pasadena Convention Center indicated they need the space for upcoming event schedules. Their collaborative efforts aim to transition evacuees closer to Altadena, restoring a sense of normalcy amid chaos.

“While the Red Cross is working to accommodate this request, we have a team of shelter transition workers whose role is to help identify barriers for shelter residents to move on to the next step of their recovery.” – Red Cross

More than 9,400 structures were obliterated, displacing numerous families and individuals. The urgency resides in ensuring that those affected have immediate needs met through shelter and supportive services until they secure long-term housing options.

Impact on Existing Facilities and Events

The Pasadena Convention Center, a temporary sanctuary since January 7, demands its restoration for scheduled events. This pressure places additional demands on the Red Cross, impacting the ability of the facility to serve the community in the interim. With the upcoming “America’s Got Talent” and the NAACP Image Awards, operations there are scheduled to cease by February 8.

“The longer we operate the shelter at the Convention Center some business decisions will have to be made. The Convention Center has contractual commitments to entities that are scheduled to move in and host events and operate there.” – Matthew Hawkesworth

This shift embodies broader challenges faced by crisis management entities striving to balance community welfare with municipal responsibilities and economic imperatives.

Community Support and Recovery

With the relocation date nearing, crucial communication remains vital among affected residents and local services to mitigate potential disruption. Accurate information is vital for evacuees to understand their options, reassuring them of continued support and resources.

“In moments like these, accurate information is critical. Misinformation and rumors don’t help the healing process… 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.” – Lisa Derderian

Ultimately, the Red Cross’s resolve remains unwavering, ensuring no displaced individual is left unsupported, benefiting from an organized relocation that upholds dignity, security, and the promise of stability.