FOOTHILLS STRONG
A HEARTFELT THANKS TO ALL THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE LA FIRE RELIEF COMMUNITY EVENT
IN AID OF AFFECTED FAMILIES AND FIRST RESPONDERS
THANK YOU TO EVENT SPONSORS AND VOLUNTEERS —
YMCA of Southeastern Ventura County
California Strong
Handels Ice Cream
Float Coffee Bar
Thomas Atamian and Associates
The City of La Canada Flintridge
La Canada Unified School District
Glendale Unified School District
Pro Active Sports Performance
Herbalife 24
Babaians Law Firm
Flintridge Pizza Kitchen
IKEA Burbank
Radar Promotions
Chef Melody
Sweet Demi Lune Bakery & Café
Gios Bakery & Café
Falkon Robotics
Bonners Party Rentals
FOOTHILLS STRONG is an emergency response initiative created by the YMCA of the Foothills to help provide basic needs and monetary donations to those affected by the Eaton fire.
Beacon Housing, in collaboration with Pasadena Community Foundation (PCF) and YMCA of the Foothills, announced today a new initiative to provide stable, affordable homes for low-income survivors of the Eaton Fire. Through a construction grant from PCF, Beacon Housing will add three new accessory dwelling units (ADUs) at its Garfield Agape Court property in Northwest Pasadena. During initial leasing, these units will be prioritized for low-income households displaced by the Eaton Fire.
Upon completion, the ADUs will be offered at significantly below market rents. A two-year rental assistance grant from YMCA of the Foothills will further reduce out-of-pocket housing costs for eligible tenants, creating a bridge to long-term stability.
“PCF is proud to support this effort to expand access to affordable housing following the devastation of the Eaton Fire,” said Jeannine Bogaard, PCF’s Vice President of Community Impact. “Even before the fire, affordable housing was scarce. This project meets urgent needs now and adds permanently affordable homes that will benefit our community for years to come.”
This collaboration pairs new supply with sustained affordability, recognizing survivors need both a home now and time to rebuild their lives. “We’re grateful to partner on a concrete, community-based solution that supports families beyond move-in,” said Vince Iuculano, CEO of YMCA of the Foothills. “Housing is foundational to recovery and well-being. We also extend deep gratitude to the LA Dodgers Foundation and Max and Kellie Muncy for the generosity that helps make this relief possible.”
Many survivors are facing ongoing housing insecurity with local rents out of reach; some were renting from relatives or were long-term tenants paying well below market before the fire. A recent survey from the Eaton Fire Collaborative’s Housing Committee found that 55% of homeowners and 78% of renters cannot afford the area’s average one-bedroom asking rent of $2,350; 40% of renters paid under $1,500 before the fire. “The Eaton Fire laid bare a simple truth: we need more affordable homes and real pathways to access them,” said Palin Ngaotheppitak, Executive Director of Beacon Housing. “Through this partnership with PCF and the Y, we’re delivering both—new units now and rent support that helps survivors regain stability over the next two years.”
Construction is slated to begin in October 2025, with anticipated completion before year-end. Interested households can submit a waitlist application through Beacon Housing’s website at beaconhousing.org/enquiry-form/
In August, we had the pleasure of hosting another wonderful distribution of essential items for families impacted by the Eaton Fire. We shared 65 brand-new, high-quality backpacks filled with notebooks and Contigo water bottles to help middle school students and teens confidently kick off the new school year!
The Southeast Ventura County YMCA organized the event, and we’re grateful for their continued partnership in supporting our Y community’s fire relief efforts.
The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation has awarded a $57,500 grant to the YMCA of the Foothills to support families affected by the Eaton Fire.
The partnership will help fund YMCA memberships and youth programs for displaced families, expanding the organization’s emergency response efforts.
The Eaton Fire directly impacted 765 YMCA members in Altadena and Pasadena, with many losing homes or facing long-term displacement. The YMCA launched its Foothills Strong initiative in January as an emergency response program providing basic needs and financial support to fire victims.
The organization has distributed $202,947 to affected members, offering emergency assistance and free access to memberships and programs.
The Dodgers Foundation grant stems from proceeds of an “Uncork for a Cause” fundraising event hosted in June by Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy and his wife, Kellie. The event, held in partnership with the foundation, YMCA and AWM Capital, supported wildfire recovery and youth development programs. A live online auction featuring exclusive items and experiences continued after the June event, concluding July 25. Proceeds from the auction made the foundation grant possible.
2025 BACK TO SCHOOL BASH HOSTED BY THE LOS ANGELES DODGERS FOUNDATION
In July, the YMCA of the Foothills proudly provided 50 of our members, particularly those affected by the LA Fires, with free transportation to enjoy an unforgettable day at the Dream Center. The event included rides, water slides, and family fun. It also offered helpful resources such as medical screenings, haircuts, and food distribution.
We’re proud to participate in events that bring joy and meet real needs. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier, and more connected LA.
‘UNCORK FOR A CAUSE’ EVENT HOSTED BY THE DODGER FAMILY, MAX AND KELLIE MUNCY
In June, the Y partnered with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation and friends from AWM Capital for the ‘Uncork for a Cause’ event hosted by the Dodger Family, Max and Kellie Muncy. The event supported wildfire recovery efforts and youth development programs through LADF and the YMCA of the Foothills. Guests enjoyed world-class wine tastings, engaging live and silent auctions, and a special gift—Max’s exclusive Sonoma Reserve Cuvée.
KIDS FIRST RESOURCE FAIR HOSTED BY THE POWER OF ONE FOUNDATION
In early April, the YMCA of the Foothills took part in the Kids First Resource Fair, providing new coats, shoes, Chromebooks, and personal care items to children and families affected by the LA Fires.
IN THE NEWS
