The Dena Report
Accessibility | Collaboration | Inclusivity | Accuracy
NEW ISSUES EVERY THURSDAY
Issue 04
May 15, 2025
Highlights
Summary (P. 2)
The week in review
Virtual Meetings & Recordings (P. 3)
Updates from Department of Health & Congresswoman Chu
Doing Good in the Neighborhood (P. 4)
Greenline Housing Foundation supporting Altadena
Community Updates (P. 5)
PUSD's soil testing findings
Events (P. 6)
Events this week
Funding (P. 7)
Available grants and funding resources
02
Summary
Community Update
Doing Good in the Neighborhood
Townhalls
Funding
Summary
This week’s key updates center on community recovery and accountability. Pasadena Unified began releasing soil testing results post-Eaton Fire, with some campuses cleared while others—like one parent’s child’s lunch and play area—show elevated contamination, prompting urgent calls for remediation and transparency. Greenline Housing Foundation was spotlighted for its work to close the racial wealth gap through homeownership, including $35K down payment grants and land purchases to benefit Altadena renters. Congresswoman Judy Chu hosted a powerful town hall tackling the impacts of Trump’s second term, Project 2025, ICE enforcement, and proposed Medicaid and education cuts, while reaffirming support for fire survivors and federal recovery efforts.
03
Video
Town Halls and Meetings
LA County leaders and environmental experts shared key findings and updates from ongoing assessments in fire-affected areas, particularly Altadena.
Air Quality:
The South Coast AQMD conducted mobile and stationary monitoring post-fire.
Air toxics like arsenic and chromium were occasionally above background levels, but well below health thresholds.
Lead levels in air samples remained within background levels; asbestos was only detected in a few isolated samples.
PM2.5 and PM10 levels (fine and coarse particulate matter) have stayed below federal health standards.
Residents can track real-time air data via the South Coast AQMD app and the AQMD fire response dashboard.
Soil Testing & Risk:
Dr. Love from ROUX Associates shared new data from stage 3 soil testing on properties where structures were destroyed and later scraped by the Army Corps.
Findings confirm reduced risk after soil removal, but some exceedances of lead and other contaminants still persist, especially in areas not scraped.
Downwind areas from the Eaton Fire showed higher average lead levels, even on intact properties.
Dr. Love emphasized soil management as part of rebuilding—recommending mulch, compost, hardscaping, and assessments by environmental professionals, especially for outdoor areas like play zones and gardens.
Public Health Implications:
Lead remains the top health concern, particularly for children. Even low levels can impact development.
Free blood lead testing is ongoing—only three adult cases have shown results above CDC’s action level.
A $3M soil testing program launches May 19, targeting ~26,000 homes downwind of the fire.
Residents will receive postcards.
Self-collection kits and a local drop-off site in Altadena will be available.
Results will be emailed with clear health guidance.
Worker Safety & Oversight:
Weekly field inspections have resulted in 10 Cal/OSHA referrals for unsafe conditions.
Many violations occurred on opt-out cleanup sites lacking proper dust control or PPE.
Residents can report issues like uncovered debris trucks or unsafe work practices.
Water & Pools:
Standing water in fire-damaged pools may become mosquito breeding grounds.
Vector Control is developing a response plan—residents are urged to report problem pools.
Schools:
Pasadena Unified and other districts conducted independent soil testing, with environmental consultants guiding safe reopening.
Public Dashboard Launched:
A new LA County Public Health Post-Fire Assessment Dashboard consolidates data from air, soil, water, and health assessments.
Available at data.lacounty.gov
At the May 7th community listening session, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger announced the launch of a self-certification pilot program for Eaton Fire rebuilds starting May 19. Licensed architects and engineers can now certify that residential rebuilds meet code, significantly reducing permit wait times and costs. Additionally, the County is offering free access to Archistar, an AI-powered plan review tool, and expanding its pre-approved home plan catalog to streamline the process.
The Army Corps of Engineers reported that over 4,250 properties have had fire debris removed, and 2,400 have been returned to owners. The deadline to pull permits is June 1, and debris removal must be completed by June 30. New abatement notices will be posted for properties with no opt-in or opt-out by May 15. Those receiving notices can still opt into free removal.
The Department of Public Health confirmed that while debris removal has reduced toxic exposure, some soil samples still exceed safe levels for lead, particularly in untouched areas. A new $3 million County-funded soil testing program for downwind properties will launch next week. Residents can collect samples and drop them off for lab analysis.
Mental health services continue through local partners, including weekly support groups at Octavia’s Bookshelf and mobile outreach by the Department of Mental Health. The County is also pursuing funding to open two long-term Resilience Centers.
Other updates included:
$75K small business relief loans now available through Pasadena
Partial property tax reductions will reflect fire damage in Fall 2025 bills
Infrastructure legislation (SB 782) is moving through the state legislature to accelerate repairs
Water infrastructure upgrades are underway to meet fire flow standards
A new crime tip email was launched to report theft or suspicious activity during rebuilding: altadenatips@lasd.org
Congresswoman Judy Chu’s Emergency Town Hall Summary
Congresswoman Judy Chu held a virtual town hall to address concerns about Trump’s second term, Elon Musk’s influence in government, and Project 2025. She was joined by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Megan Yelle of Democracy Forward.
Top Concerns Raised
1. Government Takeover by Musk & Project 2025
Trump gave Elon Musk access to federal systems like the IRS and Social Security via the new “Department of Government Efficiency (DoGE).” Chu introduced legislation to block this access and protect taxpayer data.
2. Mass Layoffs of Federal Workers
Thousands of federal employees, including veterans, have been fired. Legal action has reinstated 5,600 USDA employees. California and other states are suing to stop unlawful firings.
3. Attacks on Civil Rights & Public Programs
Trump’s orders are targeting abortion rights, DEI programs, and gender-affirming care. Democracy Forward has blocked several of these orders in court.
4. Immigration Enforcement
ICE activity is increasing. Chu emphasized “Know Your Rights” tools and co-sponsored the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act to restrict ICE from schools, churches, and hospitals.
5. Cuts to Medicaid, SNAP & Social Security
Republicans proposed $880B in Medicaid and $230B in SNAP cuts to fund tax breaks. Chu is fighting back with bills and by organizing public pressure campaigns.
6. Education & FAFSA at Risk
Trump plans to dismantle the Department of Education. Chu is co-sponsoring legislation to protect student aid and federal education programs.
7. Public Lands & Wildfire Protection
Trump ordered 280 million acres opened to logging and laid off thousands of Forest Service staff. Chu is working to stop the layoffs and protect wildfire response efforts.
8. Tariffs & Rising Costs
New 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico are raising costs on food, fuel, and housing. Chu supports the Stop Tariff Abuse Act to curb these economic impacts.
Rep. Chu’s Strategy:
Legislate: Introduce bills to protect rights and public programs.
Litigate: Partner with Democracy Forward and state AGs to sue over illegal actions.
Activate: Encourage the public to protest, share stories, and hold leaders accountable.
For resources or help with federal agencies (FEMA, Social Security, etc.), visit chu.house.gov or contact her office directly.
Let me know if you want this turned into a flyer, one-pager, or social post.
03
Doing Good in the Neighborhood
Finding Comfort in the Ashes
Greenline Housing Foundation Is Restoring Justice One Home at a Time
In the heart of Altadena, where history, resilience, and community run deep, the Greenline Housing Foundation is making homeownership possible for those most often left out of the American dream. Founded by Jasmin Shupper, Greenline is on a mission to close the racial wealth gap and keep longtime Black and Brown residents rooted in the neighborhoods they’ve helped shape for generations.
Greenline was launched to reverse the legacy of redlining and racial housing discrimination by offering down payment grants, financial education, and home maintenance assistance to qualified Black and Hispanic first-time homebuyers. Through its signature Greenline Home Program, eligible residents of Los Angeles County can apply for $35,000 in down payment and closing cost support. Since its launch, 46 awardees have already become homeowners, with dozens more in the pipeline—proof that this kind of support isn’t just visionary, it’s working.
In the wake of the Eaton Fire, which devastated parts of Altadena and increased pressure on already-vulnerable renters, Greenline stepped in not only with education and grants, but by purchasing land with the intent to hold and return it to local residents. Their goal: prevent displacement, offer pathways to ownership, and safeguard Altadena’s racial and economic diversity. “Race-based damage requires race-based repair,” says Greenline—and they’re not waiting for government action. Through grassroots giving and community partnerships, they’re creating a model that uplifts, restores, and builds wealth where it’s long been denied.
For those interested in learning more or applying for assistance, Greenline also hosts free workshops in partnership with Neighborhood Housing Services to guide first-time homebuyers through the process.
To support or apply, visit: greenlinehousing.org
Greenline Housing Foundation is doing more than creating homeowners—they're helping a community stay whole.
04
Community Updates
TOP COMMUNITY UPDATE: PUSD Soil Testing Progress Raises Parent Questions and Concerns
Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) has completed the first phase of soil testing across all school sites following the Eaton Fire, working with state-licensed environmental experts and public health agencies to assess fire-related contaminants like lead. While many campuses have been cleared and their outdoor areas fully reopened, some schools showed elevated levels of contamination in specific zones, which remain closed until proper remediation is complete. Full updates, maps, and test results are being posted at pusd.us/firerelief-safety.
Though the district has pledged transparency and committed to completing remediation by the start of the next school year, families are still seeking urgent answers. One parent shared:
“As a mother of a student at one of the affected campuses, I still don’t know where my daughter is eating lunch or playing. Are the tables cleaned daily? Have the HVAC systems been checked for dust? What about classroom floors where students sit and learn? We need answers—not just about soil, but about daily exposure in real learning spaces.”
She went on to express deeper concern:
“The area that showed high lead levels at my daughter’s school is exactly where she spends all of her free time and eats lunch. I’m sure that when the wind blows, she’s come in contact with the very soil now deemed contaminated. That’s terrifying.”
These personal stories underscore the need for more than data—they demand swift, compassionate action. PUSD leadership, including Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco, has promised continued communication and safety-first decisions. But for many families, trust will come from seeing concrete steps: remediated grounds, clean air systems, and safe, monitored spaces where children can learn and grow without fear.
05
Events
This upcoming week offers tons of both virtual and in-person workshops covering a variety of topics.
LA County is hosting a virtual workshop on "Like-for-Like" rebuilds for communities in unincorporated LA County recovering from the Eaton and Palisades wildfires. A Like-for-Like rebuild is the construction of a house that is the same as (or similar to) the house that existed prior to the fires. Attendees will hear from LA County experts about what makes a rebuild project Like-for-Like, and how to take advantage of this process, which can help homeowners rebuild efficiently, safely, and affordably.
Rebuild Together LA is hosting a Recover & Rebuild virtual town hall on Tuesday at 7 pm that will cover insurance claims, debris removal, permitting and reconstruction.
Next Thursday, the California Commission on Aging is hosting an informational hearing on the challenges faced by older adults and people with disabilities in the aftermath of wildfires at the Braille Institute Los Angeles Center (also available virtually).
06
Funding
NAME OF ORGANIZATION
ELIGIBILITY
AMOUNT
DUE DATE
APPLICATION LINK
Altadena Disaster Relief Small Business Loan Program
Must be currently operating, have a physical storefront in zip codes 91001 and 91104, & show proof of disaster hardship/impact.
up to $75,000
June 3, 2025
LA Chamber Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund
Nonprofits with $10 million or less in annual revenue operating within or whose clientele are primarily based in Eaton & Palisades Wildfire Disaster Impact & Evacuation Area.
$10,000-$25,000
June 6, 2025
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
If you lost your job or cannot work because of the wildfire, you may be eligible for unemployment, disability, or paid family leave. Also available for self-employed workers impacted by disaster.
varies
June 10, 2025
Altadena Community Preservation Fund
65+ homeowner who experienced a total loss, lived in U.S. Census Tracts 4602, 4603.01, 4603.02 and 4610, and is uninsured or underinsured (homeowners).
$15,000
February 15, 2026
Filipino Migrant Center/National Alliance for Filipino Concerns Aid Application
Essential workers whose workplaces are affected, who lost wages due to evacuation or work closure, or whose homes were impacted directly.
varies
Fuerza Fund
Essential workers and unique households impacted by the wildfires (website gives full definition of unique and essential).
varies
Wildfire Relief: Immediate Assistance for Those in Need
Individuals, nonprofits, and small businesses who were affected by the fires. Must be a permanent resident of the impacted area.
$5,000-$25,000
Disability Insurance and Paid Family Leave for Undocumented Workers
Specific requirements listed online, but funds are also available for undocumented workers (no social security number needed).
varies
We Are Moving the Needle Microgrants
For producers, engineers, and creators whose livelihoods in the field of audio were impacted by the fires.
$100-$1,000
Entertainment Community Fund
Based on performing arts and entertainment income, documented financial need, unexpected critical need, and a social service assessment of need and circumstance. Eligibility varies depending on the grant, but there is one application.
varies
Eaton Fire Relief Grants
Community-based & tax-exempt organizations serving people impacted by the fires.
varies
Craft artists who have experienced a recent disaster, 18+, lived & worked in the U.S. for two years.
CERF+ Craft Artists Emergency Relief
$3,000
State Supplemental Grant Program
Applications were automatically transferred from FEMA after maximum IHP assistance has been reached.
varies
May 15, 2025
CalWORKS
Amount depends on eligible number of people and any special needs of family members, need for caretaker relatives, unemployment of principal earner, etc.
varies
USC Credit Union Relief Assistance
Wildfire Relief Loan is available to both new and current USC Credit Union members, offering a low 4.99% APR to support short- and long-term recovery efforts.
varies
Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance Loans
SBA disaster assistance for homeowners, renters, nonprofits, and businesses of all sizes affected by the wildfires and straight-line winds in California.
varies
Jewish Free Loan Association
Must have one to two qualified guarantors; more details online.
varies
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Contributors
Bree Jensen
Meagan Schmidt
Editor
meagan@thesocialimpact.co
https://thesocialimpact.co/
Jemimah Perez
Head of Creative
hello.barnabestudio@gmail.com
https://www.barnabestudio.com/
Kathy Taing
Mikah Gay