Media Contact:  
Charmaine Nelson (626) 344-4325
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pasadena Senior Center to Re-open Following Eaton Fire Cleanup

The Pasadena Senior Center has announced that it will re-open its doors this Friday and Saturday, with classes resuming on the following Monday. The center, a crucial hub for the senior community, has been temporarily closed due to significant debris around the parking structure and center premises following the Eaton fire and consequent high-velocity winds.

Executive Director Akila Gibbs expressed her enthusiasm about the reopening, stating, "I am happy that we will be able to open our doors and welcome seniors back to the center." The cleanup efforts have been significantly supported by Councilmember Justin Jones's office, which played a pivotal role in mobilizing city resources for the task. "When I learned that the center was closed due to debris, I worked in coordinating with city staff from the Public Works Department and Parks, Recreation, and Community Services to help clean up," said Councilman Jones.

During the closure, the Senior Center staff conducted wellness checks on nearly 2000 members, provided protein drinks, and distributed incontinence and personal hygiene products by taking them to the convention center. In a gesture of community solidarity, Friday's lunch will also welcome older adults from the Altadena Senior Center, which unfortunately has burned down. These individuals are invited to participate in the Pasadena Senior Center's programs and services, including the lunch program.

Acknowledging the ongoing recovery efforts, Ms. Gibbs urged caution amongst the senior community due to the lingering debris on streets and unhealthy air quality. "We urge everyone to be careful while walking and to wear face masks," she advised.

The center is eager to resume its regular schedule of classes and activities from Monday. This weekend, the center invites all seniors for a complimentary cup of coffee and to experience a renewed sense of community. "We welcome you with open arms," concluded Gibbs.

“The Pasadena Senior Center prioritizes efforts to improve the lives of older adults,” said Councilmember Jones.

The Pasadena Senior Center is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for older adults to engage in meaningful activities, learn new skills, and enjoy social interaction. The center thanks everyone involved in the cleanup and recovery efforts and looks forward to continuing its service to the community.

For 65 years, the Pasadena Senior Center’s mission has been to improve the lives of older adults through caring service with opportunities for social interaction, fitness programs, basic support and needs services, education, volunteerism and community activism. With 10,000 Americans per day becoming older adults, the center is a leader in addressing issues of aging and provides innovative, cutting-edge, nationally recognized programs for this population group.

As a donor-supported nonprofit, the center operates without any local, state or federal funding and provides more services to older adults than any other organization in the San Gabriel Valley. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. To learn more visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org or call 626-795-4331.