The Walt Disney Company has announced a $5 million investment to rebuild and reimagine Charles White Park in Altadena, California. This commitment is part of a larger $15 million pledge made earlier this year to aid in recovery efforts following devastating wildfires that impacted Los Angeles neighborhoods. The redesigned park will feature a new playground, community center, and amphitheater, with a planned reopening in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Disney commits $5 million to Charles White Park in Altadena.
- The park suffered damage from the Eaton fire earlier this year.
- Plans include a new playground, community center, and amphitheater.
- Reopening is expected in 2025.
- This is part of Disney's $15 million wildfire relief pledge for Los Angeles.
Reimagining a Community Space
The Charles White Park, a significant five-acre public space, was heavily damaged by the Eaton fire in January. This blaze caused widespread destruction, leading to the loss of around 20 lives and over 9,000 buildings. Now, as the one-year mark of these fires approaches, Disney's Imagineers are working with county officials to bring a new vision to life for the Altadena community.
The project focuses on creating a vibrant new hub for residents. Designs incorporate local elements, such as the Deodar Cedar pinecones, into the park's aesthetic. The goal is to provide a modern, engaging space while honoring the park's historical significance.
Quick Facts
- $15 million: Disney's initial pledge for wildfire relief in Los Angeles.
- $5 million: Specifically allocated for Charles White Park.
- 5 acres: Size of Charles White Park.
- 2025: Expected reopening year for the park.
A Deep Commitment to Los Angeles
“Los Angeles has been home to The Walt Disney Company since its founding more than a century ago, which is why we felt a special responsibility to help this community rebuild in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires earlier this year,” stated CEO Bob Iger.
Iger also highlighted the dedication of Disney's Imagineers. These creative professionals are volunteering their time and skills to help redesign public spaces like Charles White Park. Their work demonstrates Disney's creative spirit and its commitment to local communities. The company hopes this effort will bring comfort, joy, and a sense of renewal to Altadena for years to come.
The Legacy of Charles White
The park is named after Charles White, an acclaimed social realist artist of the 20th century. White, who lived in Altadena for decades, passed away in 1979 at age 61. His work, often depicting the lives of Black Americans, began during the Great Depression through the WPA program. The park was named in his honor a year after his death.
Community Impact
The Eaton fire caused significant displacement, spreading residents across the Los Angeles County area. A rebuilt Charles White Park will offer a crucial gathering place. It will allow friends and neighbors to reconnect, exchange ideas, and share reflections. This aspect is incredibly meaningful for a community that has experienced such disruption.
Beyond the Park: Broader Relief Efforts
The $15 million relief commitment by Disney extends beyond Charles White Park. A portion of these funds has supported organizations like the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. These groups provide immediate and ongoing assistance to those affected by the fires.
The wildfires, which scorched over 10,000 acres across Altadena, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Pasadena, and the Hollywood Hills, also impacted Disney employees. Over 150 Disney staffers lost their homes, with 15 of them being Imagineers.
Additional Community Support
In addition to the Charles White Park project, Disney Imagineers are working on two other park projects in Altadena. These are slated for completion in 2026. The company is also supporting Altadena’s historic Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival. This event, known for being one of the largest Christmas displays globally, begins on December 6th.
As part of its corporate citizenship, Disney plans to donate more than 1,000 toys to the community's annual toy drive on the same December night. These efforts highlight Disney's broad involvement in the Altadena community's recovery and celebration.
- American Red Cross: Received a portion of Disney's relief funds.
- LA Fire Department Foundation: Also a recipient of support.
- LA Regional Food Bank: Benefited from Disney's donations.
- Christmas Tree Lane: Disney supports the lighting ceremony and festival.
- Toy Drive: Over 1,000 toys to be donated this December.
