The recent wildfires in Altadena, California, have left a trail of devastation, destroying homes and forcing residents to grapple with the loss of cherished memories and possessions. The story focuses on two families, the Washingtons and the Joiners, who have called Altadena home for decades. The fires claimed the Washington family's house, where they celebrated countless milestones and raised four children. Meanwhile, the Joiners lost their historic home, filled with memories and heirlooms, including those from the late husband's military service. Both families now face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives while grappling with the emotional and financial toll of the disaster.
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Washington learned about the fire in real-time while on the phone with one of her children, who heard a friend’s mother had just evacuated. She saw the orange sky and heard the howling winds. A phone alert for her to evacuate was issued around 15 minutes later. Washington packed a few bags and suitcases before leaving. When she got outside, all the power was off and she could only see the embers flying down the hill.
Joiner, who moved to California in her childhood and only provided a sly smile when asked about her age, went on to work at the local John Muir High School in Pasadena where she was fondly known as “mom” and “Mrs. J.” She still works for the Pasadena Unified School District today at the district office.
Following the fire, she learned the house was underinsured. To make matters worse, they already received a text message offering to purchase the land. The community remains tight-knit following the fires. Joiner characterized Altadena as “a Christian-based, church-type town” where people are coming together more than ever. Many of her colleagues were born and raised in the area, with some alumni of the high school she worked at. As Joiner returns to work, she knows many of the students will be directly impacted.
WILDFIRES ALTADENA HOME LOSS COMMUNITY IMPACT RECOVERY
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