Support That Goes the Distance

Red Cross and community partners help pave the road to recovery

June 20, 2025

After losing his home and car in the Eaton Fire, James Robinson received Red Cross financial assistance that helped him buy a replacement vehicle—restoring his ability to attend critical medical appointments. (Photos by Mimi Teller/American Red Cross).

By Diego Valenzuela/American Red Cross

In January, the Eaton Fire moved through James Robinson’s neighborhood. He evacuated in time, but the fire destroyed both his home and his car.

Robinson has an ongoing medical condition that requires regular appointments. Without a car, he couldn’t get to his doctor. Although he received a small insurance payment, it wasn’t enough to replace his vehicle.

The American Red Cross provided financial support—first, Robinson got immediate assistance during the initial disaster response and again in a second round of assistance to bridge gaps in his recovery. Combined with his insurance, this assistance made it possible for Robinson to replace his car. This gave him back reliable transportation and reduced a major source of stress.

Red Cross helped me get a car and that makes it easier for me to get to the doctor,” Robinson said.

He also visited a Red Cross-hosted Multi-Agency Resource Center in Pasadena. There, he met with several community partners. He received food from the LA Food Bank and a free air filter for his residence.

The Red Cross and our partners continue to support people like Robinson after emergencies—providing practical help and resources long after the immediate danger has passed.

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The Red Cross provides more than emergency aid—it helps people navigate their long term recovery by linking them with community partners, who provide essential services and resources.

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At the Red Cross-organized recovery event hosted at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Pasadena, Robinson received groceries from the LA Food Bank and support from other recovery partners.

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Volunteers from the congregation helped attendees carry supplies to their vehicles, demonstrating the power of community. The Red Cross provides more than emergency aid—connecting people to vital services and resources as they begin to rebuild after disaster.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.