Altadena businesses struggle immensely to recover from Eaton Fire aftermath

In Altadena, California, the aftermath of the Eaton Fire continues to affect local businesses significantly. Six months after the catastrophic event, many business owners are still struggling to rebuild their livelihoods. Kevin Mejia, who operates Bevel Coffee, shares that he had to shut down for two months due to the fire, facing the threat of going out of business. Fortunately, he was able to receive a $10,000 recovery grant from the California Restaurant Association, which has been instrumental in helping him stay afloat and serve his loyal customers. Mejia functions as a semi-permanent pop-up, situated on the patio of Prime Pizza, providing a communal space where residents can connect over coffee. He acknowledges the deep emotional impact of the disaster on the community, noting how many friends and regulars have lost so much in the fires. However, there remains a glimmer of hope with community solidarity embodied in the message “Altadena Strong,” as residents and business people come together to support one another during these challenging times. On the contrary, not all businesses share Mejia's positive outlook. Juan Orozco, the owner of Lucy's Place, which has been operating for nearly 30 years, expresses his despair at an 80% reduction in customers since the fire. Orozco finds the changes overwhelmingly emotional and heartbreaking, fearing for the long-term viability of his business. He remains committed to his community but is uncertain about the future, particularly as he awaits local rebuilding efforts that may help restore customer traffic. The stark contrast between Mejia's optimistic approach and Orozco's struggles illustrates the ongoing challenges facing many businesses in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. While some are able to leverage community support and financial aid to recover, others still face the daily reality of dwindling sales, emotional turmoil, and an uncertain path forward. The situation emphasizes the varying degrees of recovery experienced by the local business community, highlighting the importance of continued support and resilient community ties in overcoming the trauma caused by such disasters.