As the YMCA of the Foothills continues to monitor the effects of the Eaton Fire on the community, it has launched an emergency response initiative, FOOTHILLS STRONG, to help provide basic needs and emergency assistance to those affected by the fire. This past weekend, the Y held a donation drive where countless volunteers, supporters and staff donated needed items such as blankets, clothes, shoes, infant/toddler supplies, pet food, non-perishable items and water. The Y reached full capacity for donations by 1 p.m. and has pivoted its response efforts to the long-term needs of the community, which will be gift card donations in any amount and contributions to its FOOTHILLS STRONG emergency assistance fund. 

“What is front of mind for us is the reality that 196 of our Y members and five of our staff members who live in Altadena have been greatly impacted by the Eaton Fire; some have lost everything,” said Vince Iuculano, CEO of the YMCA of the Foothills. “As our Y community begins the process of recovering from this disaster, we at the Y remain committed to our support of our members, staff, and volunteers by providing access to basic need services, comfort and community.” 

A drop-in center has been established at the Verdugo Hills Family YMCA at 6840 Foothill Blvd. in Tujunga for anyone who has lost their home or has been displaced during the fire. The drop-in center is a place for people to pick-up basic, needed items. In the coming days, a pick-up center at the Crescenta-Cañada Family YMCA will be opened to do the same. Contact Chelsea Lawrence at clawrence@ymcafoothills.org for more information or for those affected by the fires who want to submit a “wish list” of wanted items or those who are interested in volunteering to help with sorting the donations and distributing them.

While short-term assistance is underway, the Y is also coordinating a long-term response and encouraging community members who can donate a monetary gift to do so to the 2025 FOOTHILLS STRONG: Eaton Fire Emergency Fund. Donations to the fund are available through ymcafoothills.org/donate-now, clicking the “donate now” button and choosing the 2025 Foothills Strong: Eaton Fire Emergency Fund campaign. 

All contributions will directly support Y staff and members affected by the Eaton Fire. To learn more and to donate, visit ymcafoothills.org/foothillsstrong.