To Our Community,
On behalf of U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., I want to extend our heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support to all those impacted by the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires in California. This tragedy has not only claimed homes and displaced families but also burned to the ground businesses that served as vital cornerstones of their communities.
Our hearts are especially heavy for the Black and minority-owned businesses in Altadena that have been lost. Altadena holds a unique and powerful history as a haven for Black families striving for economic stability and opportunity during the Civil Rights era. It has long been a community where generations of families thrived, overcoming discriminatory housing practices and building a legacy of racial and economic diversity.
What you may not hear in the mainstream news is the deeper loss these fires represent. Beyond the celebrity mansions and movie landmarks reduced to ashes, they have threatened a historic and resilient community. Altadena’s legacy as a rare land of opportunity for Black Americans must not be forgotten. We stand with these residents and business owners as they navigate this unimaginable loss, and we remain committed to advocating for their recovery and resilience.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by these fires, here are resources to assist you:
- FEMA Individual Assistance:
- Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Use the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST). Assistance is available in multiple languages.
- For more information, watch the Registering for Individual Assistance seminar online.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance:
- SBA offers support for homeowners, renters, nonprofits, and businesses of all sizes. Visit SBA Disaster Assistance.
- Disaster Recovery Centers:
- Find support with federal aid applications, housing assistance, and other services. Stay tuned for updates and specific locations.
- Employment Support:
- If you lost your job due to the fires, apply for benefits through the State of California.
- Shelter Support:
- Access a real-time list of open shelters and donation centers at CalOES.
The U.S. Black Chambers stands in solidarity with those affected and is here to support the long road to recovery. Together, we will rebuild and preserve the incredible legacy of these communities.
In unity,
Ron Busby, Sr.
President & CEO
U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
