In a powerful show of solidarity, Baja Cali Fish & Tacos in Pasadena has opened its doors to help those affected by the recent deadly wildfires. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16 and Friday, Jan. 17, the restaurant at 490 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, will provide free hot meals to evacuees, first responders, and anyone in the community impacted by the devastating Eaton Fire.
This community-driven initiative was announced by owners Jaime Alvarez and Lorena Valera on Wednesday, with the restaurant immediately starting to serve food from their location. The goal is to provide nourishing meals to those in need during this critical time.
Rebuilding Amid Crisis
Despite the chaos caused by the wildfires, Jaime Alvarez, who resides in West Covina, expressed gratitude that both his restaurants could give back to the community. Although the Washington Boulevard location in Pasadena remains closed due to the fire, the staff from both restaurants have come together to serve the public. This initiative not only helps those affected by the fire but also provides a sense of normalcy for the workers, who have been unable to operate since Tuesday.
Alvarez emphasized the importance of community during these challenging times:
“It helps to be busy, but more than anything, I’m so grateful we have our staff working again,” Alvarez shared. “Thanks to World Central Kitchen and everyone making this happen, the camaraderie among the helpers is wonderful. It’s all about building community.”
Support from World Central Kitchen
The initiative received significant support from the nonprofit World Central Kitchen, which provided a generous $10,000 donation to help cover the cost of meals. Baja Cali is one of 25 distribution sites near the Eaton and Pacific Palisades Fires that the nonprofit has partnered with to offer hot meals. The partnership is part of a larger effort to support victims of the fires by providing essential resources in their time of need.
Other meal distribution sites across Pasadena include:
- Lot 3 at Pasadena City College
- St. Francis School in La Canada Flintridge
- Arco Station at 2171 N. Fair Oaks Ave. in Altadena
- Pasadena Community Job Center, 500 N. Lake Ave.
- Union Station Adult Services, 412 S. Raymond Ave.
- Pasadena-Sierra Madre YMCA, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd.
- La Salle College Preparatory, 3880 E. Sierra Madre Blvd.
- Robinson Park Recreation Center, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave.
In addition, there are several Los Angeles distribution sites that include:
- Collins & Katz Family YMCA, 1466 S. Westgate Ave.
- Taft High School in Woodland Hills
- Palisades Fire Station 69, 15045 Sunset Blvd.
- Portola Middle School, 18720 Linnet St.
Community Spirit in Action
The Baja Cali initiative not only provides sustenance but also embodies the true spirit of community during a time of crisis. By offering hot meals to those who need it most, Baja Cali Fish & Tacos and World Central Kitchen are offering more than just food—they are providing hope, solidarity, and a sense of unity in the face of devastation.
Tricia Wilson, a spokeswoman for the initiative, reflected on the importance of the effort, saying:
“Baja Cali’s initiative exemplifies the true spirit of community, offering not only sustenance but also hope and solidarity in a time of great need.”
As the community continues to heal, these efforts will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on those affected by the wildfires, demonstrating the strength of people coming together in support of one another.
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