
Eaton Fire Advocacy Work
From January 7 to 31, 2025, a series of 7 destructive wildfires affected the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
One of two largest fires was the Eaton Fire in Altadena, Loren’s hometown.
The fire killed at least 17 people and destroyed more than 9,000 buildings, becoming the fifth deadliest and the second most destructive wildfire in the history of California.
Loren has become a strong advocate for the recovery and community of Altadena. She actively works to preserve its rich history through speaking engagements, fundraising, media appearances, and raising awareness.
In Altadena, multigenerational families like the Benns have long found affordable housing and a strong sense of community. The loss of these homes represents a loss of generational wealth, especially for Black and brown communities.
Loren helped her family through the wildfires from her home in Boston and booked a one-way ticket to the West Coast. She had helped her family secure a hotel room just three hours before evacuation orders and their home was destroyed by the fire just hours later.
The Eaton fire ravaged 9,400 structures and devastated Loren’s family leaving them with nearly nothing after it destroyed their homes, memories, and more.
In this feature by Airbnb.org, Loren Benn shares the personal story behind her family’s displacement during the Eaton fires. With the support of Airbnb.org, they were able to stay together under one roof—offering a moment of stability, care, and community in the midst of crisis.
In recent years Altadena’s home prices have skyrocketed. Now there are fears that after the fires, generational wealth could be lost to gentrification.
Loren Benn & Friends: A Night of Music, Rebuilding & Community
In May 2025, Loren Benn hosted her debut fundraising gala in Boston—a heartfelt evening of live music, connection, and purpose. Loren Benn & Friends brought together artists, supporters, and community leaders to honor the spirit of resilience in the wake of the Altadena fires that devastated her family’s home.
Loren flew her entire family out from California for the event, marking their first public reunion since the fires. With the support of the Boston Jazz Foundation and a powerful lineup of performers, the evening raised critical funds to support ongoing rebuilding efforts.
What began as a story of loss became a celebration of strength, togetherness, and the power of community to rebuild what truly matters.
“Things that remind us of our past keep us human. When it’s taken away it feels inhuman.
We will stand up to sustain our history that we’ve earned.”