Eaton Fire Survivors Network
EFSN Community Update: Week of June 27

Message from Joy Chen
Founder of EFSN
Dear friends,
 
The New York Times has just released a stunning investigation into the toxic contaminants still hiding inside our homes. Alongside powerful reporting, they used the world’s most advanced imaging technology—showing clearly what many of us have long known but insurers tried to deny.
 
The visuals will stop you in your tracks.
 
Here’s a gift link:
 
Why this changes everything:
 
No outlet carries more weight with lawmakers and policy leaders—on both sides of the aisle—than the New York Times. This is the paper members of Congress read with their morning coffee. The one insurance executives watch to see if the pressure is still on.
 
If the spotlight fades, insurers win. If we keep it steady, real change becomes not just possible—but inevitable.
 
Here’s three ways you can take action right now:
 
1) Read it. Share it. Everywhere.
Post it on social media, send it to your neighbors, text it to friends.
Add a line like:
“This is jaw-dropping. The truth is finally out.”
Every share shows the world we’re not going away.
 
2 ) Get media savvy: join free survivor media training—July 2
Reporters across the country have told us the reason our stories keep making headlines is because we’ve been organized and disciplined about engaging with the media. But to keep the momentum going through what will be a years-long recovery, we need more survivors ready to step forward and share their stories.
 
Whether you want to talk about insurance, the FAIR Plan, or schools—or anything you care about—you’ll learn how to speak with clarity and confidence.
 
In just two months, EFSN survivors have helped drive over 250 stories into the national conversation. And we’re only getting started.
 
3) Come together in person—July 7
Eaton Fire Survivors 6-Month Anniversary: Hugs, Healing & Action
Monday, July 7 | Location Given on RSVP
Press Conference: 10:00–10:30 AM
Survivor Postcard Party: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
 
I want to stop and highlight this last one, because it will be the first time we gather face-to-face. Come for:
  • Connection with people who truly get it
  • Laughter, hugs, and healing
  • A united voice to the media
  • Postcards to lawmakers—handwritten pressure they can’t ignore
I can’t wait to see you at media training next week—and in person on July 7!
 
With love,
Joy

6 Month Survivor Community Survey
Your voice matters—help shape what comes next.
As we approach the six-month mark since the fires, we’re asking: What still needs attention? What’s helped most? And what would make a real difference in the long term—for Altadena’s future?
 
This short survey is your chance to help shape the programs, services, and advocacy we prioritize in the months ahead. It only takes a few minutes—and your input will directly inform where we put our time and resources as an organization as we rebuild together.

Complete the survey here. 

Key Deadlines 
Just the essentials—curated for clarity
June 27, 2025 (TODAY!): Last Chance for Free Blood Lead Testing 
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Altadena Community Center, 730 E. Altadena Drive.
The LA County Department of Public Health is holding its last free community blood lead testing event today (Friday, June 27) at the Altadena Community Center. Lead exposure from wildfire ash remains a health risk—especially for children and pregnant women—and we encourage survivors to get tested. LA Times Article here. 

June 30, 2025: Debris Removal Deadline 
If you opted out of the Army Corps program, your property must be fully cleared by June 30. Properties not cleaned up by this date may be declared a Public Nuisance. We are aware that many survivors were not aware of this deadline until recently—EFSN leadership is actively trying to contact relevant parties and secure accommodations for survivors—but we strongly encourage everyone who can to meet the deadline. Details here.
 
July 15, 2025: Deadline for Applications to Altadena Eaton Fire Relief Fund (AERFF)
The Altadena Eaton Fire Relief Fund (AERFF) is now open for applications. Launched by the Altadena Town Council with help from GoFundMe and community donors, the fund offers direct support to fire-impacted residents. Apply by July 6. Grants will be distributed starting July 15. Apply here. 

Survivor Advocacy Spotlight 
EFSN members are leading the charge on issues that matter most
Every week, EFSN surfaces urgent concerns and community wins from our Discord, so we can work with our community to drive action. Together, we’ve turned questions into campaigns, and posts into policy wins. Here are a few efforts we’ve been organizing, supporting, or celebrating lately.
 
Persistence Pays Off: One Survivor’s Liberty Mutual Claim Breakthrough
After weeks of delays, one EFSN member shared that Liberty Mutual has finally transferred their claim to a Large Loss adjuster—resulting in clear progress. ALE is now approved, their MARS report is being formally reviewed, and scope conversations are underway. This shift came from consistent documentation, escalation requests, and not backing down. As they put it:
 
“If you're in the same boat, don't give up! Document everything, send those emails, and assert your rights." - Post by Sandeep P

Standing Up to Fear: ICE Detentions and the Right to Rebuild
This week, Claire raised the alarm about ICE detentions happening at Altadena job sites—and their chilling impact on recovery. 

“Altadeneans who are underinsured have the right to rebuild—a task made that much harder by the present attack on some of the hardest working members of our community… There will be no future Altadena if this crisis is not abated.” - Post by Claire P 

She urged the Discord to contact her, reminding us that safety, labor, and dignity are all connected.
 
“Here's Barger's contact information for anyone who is concerned that we will not be able to rebuild in this climate and who cares about basic human dignity and rights!"  - Post by Claire P
 
Another post by Altadena911Survivor confirmed that at least one local contractor—a legal resident with no criminal history—was detained on Orange Grove while working on a rebuild project, and urged others to contact Rep. Judy Chu to help secure his release.
 

 
With love, determination, and solidarity,
Your Eaton Fire Survivors Network Team

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