For Lorna Sullivan, the Eaton wildfire claimed more than her home in Altadena—it claimed her community. “Across the board, every neighborhood in Altadena is special,” Lorna shared. “We were the type of neighbors that you’d call and ask to borrow eggs. Here at the shelter, we’re all looking out for each other, calling to check in.” 

Altadena has long held a historically significant place in Los Angeles history. During the Civil Rights era, Black families found a rare and welcoming home in this vibrant, middle-class neighborhood. It became a symbol of opportunity, where Black families could own homes and build lifelong bonds.

Today, that once-thriving community is facing an uncertain future, with homes and local business reduced to ashes. Among the lost landmarks were Lorna’s neighborhood market, her church, the local police station, and the cherished amphitheater that once hosted summer concerts under the stars.   

Now staying at the Pasadena Red Cross shelter, Lorna received special support as she recovers from recent knee replacement surgery and ongoing sciatica pain. She had struggled to find relief until Keith Rhodes, Pacific Division Vice President at the American Red Cross, noticed her discomfort and immediately stepped in to help.

He quickly arranged for a recliner chair and delivered it to Lorna, providing her with a much-needed set-up to aid her healing. In chatting with Keith later in the day, Lorna learned he, too, had knee surgeries and understood her discomfort too well — which led to them swapping their respective knee-surgery stories.   

The Red Cross is doing everything it can to support residents like Lorna during this incredibly difficult time. From providing a safe place to stay and warm meals to offering professional emotional and medical care, Red Cross volunteers are working tirelessly to help everyone displaced by the disaster begin the long road to recovery. 

For Lorna and her neighbors, the road ahead is uncertain, but the support and sense of community they’ve found at the shelter offer a glimmer of hope. With the Red Cross by their side, they’re finding the strength to rebuild their lives — and eventually, their beloved community. 

If you or someone you love has been affected by the Southern California fires, please call 1-800- RED-CROSS (800-733-2787).