Renters impacted by the Eaton Fire will soon have an opportunity to apply for a new long-term direct cash assistance program designed to help households recover from the disaster’s continuing financial effects.
The program, called Direct Cash for Altadena Fire Recovery, was created by the National Council of Jewish Women Los Angeles (NCJWLA) in partnership with the Altadena Tenants Union, Altadena Community Land Trust and other community groups, according to officials.
Applications for the program will open Monday at NCJWLA’s website: www.ncjwla.org/resources/direct-cash-for-altadena-fire-recovery.
Officials said eligible applicants will enter a selection pool, from which 30 households will be randomly chosen to receive $36,000 over a two-year period through monthly unrestricted cash payments.
The coalition described the initiative as the first long-term direct cash assistance program specifically focused on renters affected by the Eaton Fire.
“More than a year after the devastating fires, we know thousands of families are still struggling to rebuild their lives,” Marjorie Gilberg, CEO of NCJWLA, said in a statement. “NCJWLA knows that cash will deliver some breathing room, help renters escape crippling debt, and provide families with options again.”
Officials said the unrestricted payments are intended to help recipients cover a range of recovery-related expenses, including rent, relocation costs, debt payments and other household needs.
Community advocates said renters have faced unique recovery challenges following the fire, including displacement, rising housing costs and limited access to long-term rebuilding resources.
The Eaton Fire burned more than 14,000 acres, killed 19 people and destroyed nearly 7,000 homes and businesses.