Pasadena, California—The Armenian National Committee of America–Western Region (ANCA-WR), joined by representatives from the ANCA National office and volunteers from the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), gathered at the Jivalagian Youth Center in Pasadena to coordinate relief efforts for families displaced by the Eaton Canyon Fire. Federal and State legislators visited the volunteer-led operation which sprung into action by the initiative of the local Armenian community.

“I’m here to say to the Armenian-American community that I am devastated by what has happened,” said Rep. Judy Chu. Rep. Chu has represented the Altadena area since 2013, following redistricting in 2010. “We are there for you, and we are going to make sure that you get the resources that you need. You are not alone,” she concluded.

During the visit, Congresswoman Chu and Assemblymember Harabedian also met with the leadership of the Sahag Mesrob Armenian Christian School in Altadena, which tragically burned during the fires, to explore effective mechanisms for rebuilding and aid. Former California State Senator Anthony Portantino was also present, accompanying Assemblymember Harabedian to assist with the ongoing relief efforts.

“For anyone affected in the Armenian community, we are here for you,” said Assemblymember Harabedian, who was recently elected to represent the area. “I want to thank everyone here; the volunteers, the ANCA—and if anyone is in need of anything, we are here to help.” A Foothill native and a former Mayor of Sierra Madre, Assemblymember Harabedian’s deep ties to the community underscore his commitment to supporting those impacted during this difficult time.

Altadena, an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, was devastated by the Eaton Fire. The disaster has impacted this multi-class, diverse neighborhood, which is home to a significant Armenian-American community, including Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School. In addition to the Sahag-Mesrob Armenian School, Zorthian Ranch, a community history landmark dedicated to renowned artist Jirayr Zorthian was also a casualty to the fire. 

“This is the place to come if you need help,” said Senator Perez, who was recently elected to represent the district. “I really want to thank these folks and the ANCA for doing such incredible work to make this happen, and to really take care of our community during these challenging times.” Senator Perez, who previously served as the Mayor of Alhambra, was recently elected to serve California State Senate District 25, which covers the area hardest hit by the Eaton Canyon Fire.

“This heartwarming outpouring of unconditional support is a true testament to the power of the Armenian-American community,” said Oshin Harootoonian, Chair of the ANCA-WR Board of Directors. “It is only through the united efforts and dedication of organizations like the AYF and so many others that this well-organized relief effort has been so successful.”

As of January 16th, the Jivalagian Youth Center will officially close its in-person relief operations, after the outpouring of support and donations from the community yielded a massive package of goods to be dispersed among the displaced. While physical operations are concluding, impacted community members can continue to access assistance through the Jivalagian Youth Center’s disaster relief hotline, which offers comprehensive services, including Armenian language support from 10:00 AM to midnight daily. The hotline is available to assist with a wide range of relief efforts, including guidance on FEMA disaster claims and related needs.

The Jivalagian Youth Center’s hotline can be reached at: (818) 396-7005.

The ANCA-WR has also compiled resources for relief and fire safety, all of which can be found at www.ancawr.org/wildfire/

The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian-American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANCA-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian-American community on a broad range of issues.