Altadena
The Benn family
Known as the music family of Altadena, the Benns have lived in the area since the 1950s and regularly perform at community events around town. The Eaton fire took two homes they’d owned for generations. Eleven family members were able to stay together in an Airbnb while they figured out next steps. “Getting into a house altogether was crucial for this time, especially because we've got folks with mobility issues and little ones,” said Loren Benn, the eldest of the Benns’ seven children. The Benns plan to return to Altadena and reconnect with their community.
"Losing a home is one thing. Feeling like you've lost a bit of legacy is another," Loren said.
Altadena
Eshele and Brayden
Eshele is a therapist whose family has lived in Altadena for generations. She, her son, Brayden, and their chihuahua, King Tut, lost their home of 17 years. They stayed with Airbnb host Inessa using Airbnb.org credits. Despite their loss, Eshele has continued to provide mental health services at a critical time for her community.
“To have somebody check in on you, and be welcomed like you’re family, has made a world of difference,” Eshele said.
Altadena
Kevin, Bridget, and Copi
Kevin and Bridget are artists and photographers who live in Altadena with their 10-year-old son, Copernicus, and dog, Galaxy. The family lost their home and much of their work, but they’re most concerned about keeping their community together. They’re staying in an Airbnb for free while they figure out their plans.
“We’re just trying to take this moment to sit and think for a minute about how to tackle what’s next,” Kevin said.
Thousand Oaks
Sanam and family
Sanam hosted a crew of eight firefighters from Ventura and their four K9s, even after her family lost several of their rental properties in the wildfires. Her children—ages 3, 5, 6, and 9—helped make Costco runs to bring the firefighters food and supplies so that they had enough energy on the job.
“It was so rewarding that we could help a group of people get their energy and strength back to go and fight the fire,” Sanam said.
Palm Desert
Jimmy
Born and raised in Palm Desert, host Jimmy has brought his community together to support guests impacted by the LA wildfires. In the first week, he hosted nine families who evacuated. For one family who lost their home, he raised donations in the form of gift cards to local restaurants and coffee shops.
"My heart sank for them losing their home completely and having to relocate on a whim. I want these people to feel comfortable in my home and understand that this community, in this neighborhood, welcomes you,” Jimmy said.
Long Beach
Kaitlyn
Long Beach host Kaitlyn has gone out of her way to help guests impacted by the wildfires, including one family with a mom who was 39 weeks pregnant when they lost their home in Altadena. Kaitlyn brought donated goods and care packages to guests and continues to communicate with her host network to support more people in need of housing.
“In two weeks the world will have moved on, and these people will not have moved on. They still need so much help,” Kaitlyn said.
More stories from LA
“Getting my family comfortable is my biggest motivation, so that they can start moving in some direction, moving forward, whatever that looks like.”
—Loren, Airbnb.org guest from Altadena, CA
“It was just such a relief to feel safe and have a place to go while we were incredibly uncertain about our home.”
—Cate, Airbnb.org guest from Topanga, CA
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