Local Businesses Help Fire-Affected Students With Graduation Support

Macy’s, Wells Fargo, and Day One joined forces Saturday, May 17, to support high school seniors affected by the recent Eaton Fire, providing gift cards for graduation attire and workshops on essential life skills.

The 2025 event offered each participating senior a complimentary $250 Macy’s gift card to purchase graduation outfits. Students also attended workshops focusing on college readiness, alcohol and drug safety, and financial literacy.

Day One collaborated with the Pasadena Education Foundation to identify and register eligible students from the Pasadena Unified School District who had been impacted by the Eaton Fire.

“Wells Fargo is committed to supporting our communities. We are proud to help Pasadena students affected by the Eaton wildfires as they prepare to graduate,” said Mario Holten, vice president of philanthropy and community impact for the Southern California region.

Shannon Giancotta, store manager at Macy’s Pasadena, emphasized the importance of celebrating milestones despite hardships.

“At Macy’s, we believe in celebrating life’s milestones and supporting our community, especially during times of hardship,” Giancotta said. “It’s more than a shopping experience—it’s a chance to give back and uplift our future leaders.”

The event featured brunch, photos, and shopping opportunities alongside educational components designed to prepare students for their post-high-school journeys. This support helped students prepare to celebrate one of their greatest accomplishments—high school graduation.

Christy Zamani, executive director of Day One, expressed gratitude for the partnership.

“Supporting our community is what we DO at Day One. We are grateful for wonderful community partners like Wells Fargo and Macy’s that have shown up for our impacted youth who have been through the most unimaginable year,” Zamani said. “This event not only provided students with a fun day of brunch, photos, and shopping, but also provided our seniors with valuable skills that will safeguard them in college.”

The three organizations have committed to providing continued assistance to families affected by the Eaton Fire through financial aid, donations, and community outreach.

Registration was limited to graduating Pasadena Unified School District seniors impacted by the Eaton Fire.