A new initiative is being launched to assist residents in the areas affected by the recent wildfires, particularly in Altadena and Pacific Palisades, empowering them to recover in a manner that aligns with their personal needs and preferences.
A significant financial commitment of $10 million has been announced to support this community-oriented program, aptly named the Department of Angels. This funding will enable staffing and operational support to ensure the program effectively serves its intended purpose.
The initiative is described as a grassroots and community-based effort rather than a typical government or corporate project. Its core mission is to empower residents who experienced the Eaton and Palisades megafires to take the reins of their recovery journey. A recent press release emphasized this focus, stating, “Our goal is to make sure that those impacted by the wildfires have a guiding hand in their own healing process.”
The Department of Angels aims to provide residents with access to independent resources and project management assistance, ensuring that they receive the support they need to rebuild effectively. By collaborating with local leaders and organizations, the initiative will enhance existing community infrastructure to facilitate recovery efforts.
Notably, a heartfelt message was shared about the impact of these fires—particularly regarding loss and community bonds. The founder of the project reflected on his personal connection to the Palisades area, revealing that he too faced the devastation of losing a family home in the wildfires.