Residents and businesses in Altadena, California, are making progress in their recovery efforts nine months after the Eaton Fire devastated the community. The wildfire resulted in the deaths of 19 people and the destruction of over 9,000 structures. On Tuesday, community members were introduced to "The Collaboratory," a new resource center designed to assist survivors of the fire. This facility will offer various services, including therapy, rebuilding guidance, and essential items, all at no cost to residents.

Brandon Lamar, treasurer of the Eaton Fire Collaborative Long-Term Recovery Group, emphasized the importance of collaboration in the recovery process. "I think it also allows us to collaborate more, and that's what this space is really all about," he said. Altadena Town Council Chair Victoria Knapp highlighted the need for a supportive environment for those displaced by the fire. "We want people who are displaced, particularly those that have to come into town, that are looking to rebuild, to have a place where they can come," she stated, noting that two-thirds of the town's structures were lost.

Janet Lee, owner of Fair Oaks Burger, a family-run business that has served the community for nearly 40 years, described the nine-month mark as a significant turning point. "There's neighborhoods that are getting together, saying, 'Let's do this together. Let's build together,'" she said. Lee's family home was destroyed in the fire, and she acknowledged the challenges of navigating the permitting process for rebuilding. Despite the difficulties, she and her sister Christy continued to serve their community by providing food from their parking lot during the crisis. "It was actually quite healing in some ways, 'cause we were all kinda grieving together," Christy Lee added.

The burger shop has since reopened, and other businesses have also found ways to adapt. Shelene Hearring, founder of Two Dragons Martial Arts Studio, organized classes in parks and garages while searching for a new location. "I had grandparents and everybody just crying, thanking me and hugging me," she recalled after reopening her studio. Hearring emphasized the importance of community support during the recovery process, stating, "We gotta stay together. We gotta heal together. We're gonna be okay together as a community of people."

The Eaton Fire's impact was deeply felt, particularly on the west side of the community, where many victims lived. Janet Lee reflected on the tragedy, noting that many of those who died were her customers. However, she also recognized a positive outcome from the disaster. "Through all this tragedy brought so much love and humanity back to Altadena," she said. "And it was great to see. And it's still going on now."