CORE Partners With County Officials to Clear Wildfire Debris From Altadena Reservoir

CORE, a global crisis response nonprofit co-founded by actor Sean Penn, began clearing debris from an Altadena reservoir Thursday to restore water access for residents affected by recent wildfires.

The project, funded by philanthropist Stephen J. Cloobeck, was in partnership with Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger and the Rubio Cañon Land & Water Association.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to both Stephen Cloobeck and CORE for stepping in to help Rubio Cañon Land & Water Association clean its Altadena reservoir and remove debris from this commercial property,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “Their swift and dedicated efforts are making a meaningful impact, helping to restore water access for Altadena residents and families more quickly.”

The cleanup efforts began at 7:30 a.m. and continued until 2:00 p.m. on March 21 at 825 E. Calaveras St. Workers focused on clearing debris to facilitate the rapid rebuilding of water reservoirs and restoration of water service to Altadena residents.

Cloobeck, a longtime CORE supporter, provided funding to accelerate the restoration of the water source so affected families can return home and begin rebuilding.

“This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration in advancing our community’s recovery efforts. I deeply appreciate their commitment to supporting Altadena,” Barger added.

CORE, which stands for Community Organized Relief Effort, was founded after the 2010 Haiti earthquake by Penn and Ann Lee. The Los Angeles-based organization empowers underserved communities in and beyond crisis. With a focus on equity, CORE provides critical relief to marginalized and vulnerable people, from the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic and conflict in Ukraine, to hurricane-impacted states in the US and beyond.

The organization takes a hands-on approach to ensure families receive both immediate and long-term support, including cash vouchers, protective resources, and comprehensive case management to navigate the aid process as they work to rebuild.

Cloobeck’s involvement extends beyond this project. As a champion of social responsibility, he supports numerous charities and civic organizations throughout California and nationwide. His philanthropic work includes contributions to The Los Angeles Dream Center, Miracle on 1st Street, After-School All-Stars, The Hollenbeck Youth Center, and organizations supporting people impacted by health issues, homelessness, and lack of educational resources.

In 2012, Cloobeck founded the Diamond Resorts International Team Member Crisis Fund, now the Diamond Resorts International Foundation, which offers aid to Diamond team members worldwide who are struggling with personal challenges.

The Rubio Cañon Land & Water Association manages water service for portions of Altadena.