Small-business owners in Altadena face a devastating crisis after fire – here’s what you need to know!

In the aftermath of the devastating Eaton fire in Altadena, the juxtaposition of destruction and resilience is stark. The raging flames spared some businesses while obliterating others, leaving a community grappling with loss and uncertainty. This natural disaster has left a lasting impact on the tight-knit neighborhood nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Here are the stories of three Altadena entrepreneurs and the businesses they built, each facing unique challenges in the wake of the fire:

• Steve Salinas: Burned down but not out
  Steve Salinas, who began working at Steve’s Pet and Bike shop at the age of 14, saw his lifelong investment reduced to ashes by the fire. While determined to rebuild, Salinas faces financial hurdles and the daunting task of starting over. His commitment to the community shines through as he collects donated bikes to help residents in need, embodying resilience in the face of adversity.
• Ashima Gupta: Four walls and no customers
  Ashima Gupta, the owner of Code Ninjas, a learning center for children, finds herself in a peculiar predicament. Though her business survived the fire physically unscathed, the absence of their customer base has rendered their operations unsustainable. Dealing with canceled memberships and uncertain prospects, Gupta is navigating uncharted territory as she contemplates the future of her business.
• Carrie Meyers: After five decades, pet shop calls it quits
  Carrie Meyers’ story is one of heartbreaking loss and closure. Running Steve’s Pets for over 50 years, her business meant more than just a source of income – it was a labor of love. The fire not only destroyed her shop but also claimed the lives of the innocent animals under her care. Meyers’ decision to forego rebuilding reflects the immense toll the disaster has taken on her, emphasizing the personal tragedies intertwined with the broader economic impact.

In the face of unparalleled devastation, Altadena’s community is left to grapple with the profound aftermath of the Eaton fire. The stories of these entrepreneurs shed light on the resilience and unwavering spirit that define small business owners, even in the darkest of times. As Altadena begins to rebuild and recover, the legacy of these businesses and the individuals behind them remains a testament to the indomitable human spirit.