The Eaton fire, exacerbated by Santa Ana winds, forced approximately 20,000 people to evacuate and resulted in the destruction of around 5,000 structures.

To assist those impacted, FEMA opened two disaster recovery centers on January 14, 2025, located in Pasadena and West L.A., operating daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

At these centers, FEMA representatives provide support with applications and documentation, while also distributing essential items like food and clothing to victims.

Among those seeking assistance is Jared Robbins, a 45-year-old sound engineer who lost his home and is one of 33,000 applicants for federal aid related to the fires.

After his initial application for aid was denied, Robbins approached FEMA trailers in Pasadena to seek clarification and reapply for funds to rebuild, as well as inquire about medical assistance for his mother.

In response to the devastating Eaton fire that destroyed numerous homes, President Biden declared a major disaster, pledging full federal support for affected residents.

Another victim, Sonja Jackson, who also lost her home, is currently living with relatives and is frustrated after her initial application was denied.

Jackson expressed her dissatisfaction with her insurance coverage, which offered limited support for her family's losses, highlighting the inadequacy of payouts.

FEMA spokesperson Nicole Wilson noted that application denials can occur due to missing information and reiterated that FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits.