Rabbi Zushi Rivkin and Rabbi Laibel Hanoka helped save homes during the Eaton Fire in Altadena, providing crucial support to the community.

Rivkin, who leads Chabad of Pasadena, felt they arrived just in time. They drove through neighborhoods, checking on people’s homes. It was a tense situation, with many houses already in flames.
They found Marilyn Kirschen, a 74-year-old widow, whose home was at risk. When her hose failed, they quickly grabbed dirt from her garden and threw it on the fire. Thankfully, they managed to save her house, even though her garage was lost.
Rivkin also helped another community member, Allen Wasserman. He burst a water pipe to stop flames from spreading to Wasserman’s main home. When firefighters arrived, they quickly put out the remaining fire.
Rivkin didn’t just stop at saving homes; he also provided evacuees with meals and clothing. He even rescued a cherished chair belonging to Wasserman’s late father, ensuring it was safe amidst the chaos. The community is grateful for the rabbis’ quick actions during such a challenging time.