Partnership Launches Affordable Housing Initiative for Eaton Fire Survivors in Northwest Pasadena

A new affordable housing initiative will deliver permanent, below-market rental units for low-income survivors of the Eaton Fire, while addressing the region’s broader housing crisis. Beacon Housing, Pasadena Community Foundation (PCF), and YMCA of the Foothills announced Oct. 7 that three accessory dwelling units (ADUs) will be constructed at Garfield Agape Court in Northwest Pasadena, with priority given to fire-displaced households.

The initiative, formally launched as part of the Eaton Fire Relief & Recovery effort, combines immediate shelter with sustained affordability. PCF’s grant program will fund the ADU construction, while YMCA of the Foothills will provide a two-year rental assistance grant for eligible tenants. The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation contributed $57,500 to support the effort, with additional thanks extended to Max and Kellie Muncy for their generosity.

“The Eaton Fire laid bare a simple truth: we need more affordable homes and real pathways to access them,” said Palin Ngaotheppitak, executive director of Beacon Housing. “Through this partnership with PCF and the Y, we’re delivering both—new units now and rent support that helps survivors regain stability over the next two years.”

Survey data from the Eaton Fire Collaborative’s Housing Committee underscores the urgency. Seventy-eight percent of renters and 55 percent of homeowners affected by the fire cannot afford the area’s average one-bedroom rent of $2,350. Before the fire, 40 percent of renters paid under $1,500 monthly.

“PCF is proud to support this effort to expand access to affordable housing following the devastation of the Eaton Fire,” said Jeannine Bogaard, PCF’s vice president of community impact. “Even before the fire, affordable housing was scarce. This project meets urgent needs now and adds permanently affordable homes that will benefit our community for years to come.”

The partnership recognizes that housing stability requires both immediate shelter and long-term affordability. The units will be offered at significantly below market rates, with rental assistance reducing out-of-pocket costs for qualifying tenants.

Construction is scheduled to begin in October, with completion expected before year-end. Interested households may submit waitlist applications through the Beacon Housing website.