Community Unites in Support of Summerkids Camp After Devastating Eaton Fire

Summerkids Camp Community Unites After Eaton Fire Disaster

On January 18, 2025, the beloved Summerkids Camp, a family-owned establishment nestled in the Altadena hills, faced an heartbreaking tragedy. The Eaton Fire swept through the camp property and ravaged the site, a cherished haven for generations of children since its inception in 1978. Targeted directly by the flames, the camp's facilities, which had been welcoming campers from Altadena and nearby areas for decades, were completely destroyed. Despite this immense loss, the community surrounding Summerkids Camp continues to demonstrate exceptional solidarity.

Summerkids Camp Director, Cara DiMassa, part of the family that has been at the helm of the camp since its foundation, expressed the community’s sorrow, saying, "We are grieving all that we have lost in Altadena, including many of our camp families' homes." This sentiment resonates deeply as families that have participated in the camp over the years grapple with the aftermath of the fire, with many still dealing with the loss of their homes.

DiMassa has committed herself to aiding the recovery by compiling a database to track the Summerkids Camp families who lost their homes in this disaster. As of now, more than 50 families connected to the camp have faced this hardship, including the camp's caretaker, who had resided on the property. In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, some of these families, despite their own losses, have been found donating resources to support fellow families going through similar crises. DiMassa noted, "It shows how much we value each other as a camp community and come together in crises like this."

The Summerkids Camp has been a pivotal part of the Altadena community since 1980 when it was established at its current location on a 55-acre site initially intended for the Camp Fire Girls in the late 1940s. The property was rich in history, housing a lodge designed by the renowned local architect Boyd Georgi. Alongside the lodge, numerous structures like cabins, playgrounds, an amphitheater, and archery ranges also met their demise in the blaze, marking a significant loss for the community who cherished these spaces for both recreational and developmental purposes.

In the days following the fire, the outpouring of support for affected families within the Summerkids community has been remarkable, reflecting the deep connections that have be formed over the years at the camp. Local businesses, other community organizations, and individuals have rallied together to provide assistance—offering financial aid, household items, and even temporary housing for those displaced.

Summerkids Camp has provided invaluable experiences for countless children in grades K-9, nurturing personal growth through outdoor activities and fostering lasting friendships. The community's effort to help each other through this difficult time illustrates not only resilience but also a testament to the spirit of connection and love fostered by the camp throughout the years.

Looking ahead, the DiMassa family hopes to rebuild Summerkids Camp but acknowledges the road will be long and challenging. The camp's legacy of joy, laughter, and friendship will undoubtedly inspire ongoing support and dreams of restoration, serving as a beacon of hope for the children and families who treasure its memories. For now, they focus on comforting one another, reflecting on the meaning of community, and standing together against adversity.

In the wake of disasters like the Eaton Fire, stories of resilience and fellowship emerge strongly, illustrating the profound impact that places like Summerkids Camp hold within the hearts of those it serves. The journey of recovery is just beginning, but one thing is clear—the Summerkids Camp community will continue to light the path forward, ready to embrace the future with open arms and hopeful hearts.