Domestic Workers in Los Angeles Face Financial Crisis After Wildfires Destroy Homes

Domestic workers in Los Angeles are struggling to make ends meet after a series of devastating wildfires, specifically the Palisades and Eaton fires, resulted in the destruction of thousands of homes. These fires have forced thousands to evacuate and destroyed over 12,000 structures, leaving at least 27 confirmed fatalities.

One domestic worker, Patricia, recounted her experience of escaping the flames on January 7 while cleaning a house in Pacific Palisades. Despite the panic around her, she continued her work until the family she was employed by began to evacuate. The next day, Patricia learned that both homes she worked for had burned down, leaving her without her primary sources of income.

Many domestic workers like Patricia now face a severe financial crisis as they seek employment in areas severely impacted by the fires. Organizations like Celebration Nation and the National Domestic Workers Alliance are stepping in to provide support, yet many workers, often undocumented, don’t qualify for state or federal aid. This leaves them reliant on community assistance, which includes providing basic supplies and protection equipment for clean-up efforts in burned areas.

Local nonprofits are organizing donation drives to assist affected domestic workers, many of whom are immigrants facing heightened economic challenges. The situation highlights the vulnerability of domestic workers during crises, as they are typically the first to lose income yet often the last to receive aid.

As Patricia reflects on her uncertain future, she voices her concerns for many in similar situations, emphasizing the urgent need for continued support and resources for those displaced by the wildfires.