In Altadena, fire victims are grappling with the aftermath of the Eaton fire while maintaining connections in their neighborhood. Many, like Greg Gill, are living in recreational vehicles (RVs) outside their homes as they await repairs due to smoke and heat damage. Unlike FEMA trailers from past disasters, these RVs offer a semblance of comfort and autonomy. As these residents navigate loss, they find support and encourage one another, building a sense of community even amidst the lingering surrealness of their situations.
"Two years in a Motel 6? No, baby, I'm in an RV," said Gill, who is living with his partner in a 27-foot Puma trailer next to their 3,100-square-foot historic Craftsman house.
Gill is a gregarious, optimistic Southerner whose decision to move into an RV inspired others on his block to do the same.
"It is still surreal," he said. "Several times a day, when I walk out of the trailer, and I open the door and I look at the house, it's OK.
Ideologies surrounding disaster recovery have shifted, as many now prefer RV living over FEMA trailers, avoiding the traumas of past experiences.
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