Adult Entertainment Excluded From Wildfire Relief Grants Amid Controversy
LOS ANGELES — Businesses affected by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires will have access to a $1 million relief fund, spearheaded by the nonprofit Steadfast LA and supported by the Banc of California. Launched in early August, the fund offers emergency grants up to $50,000 for local companies struggling to recover.
However, adult entertainment businesses are explicitly excluded from eligibility, alongside liquor stores, smoke/vape shops, and lending organizations, according to Pasadena Now. This decision has sparked debate across communities and industries.
Relief Focused on Local Businesses
The campaign, administered through LiftFund, requires applicants to have a business checking account in Palisades, Malibu, or Altadena. Organizers emphasize helping small businesses that are integral to the region’s economic and social fabric.
Rick Caruso, founder and chairman of Steadfast LA, highlighted the community-centered nature of the program:
“These businesses aren’t faceless storefronts. They are the fabric of the community. Made up of people—owners, employees, and loyal customers—they deserve advocates to address their challenges through no fault of their own.”
Exclusion Sparks Fairness Debate
Despite the compassionate tone, excluding adult entertainment venues reveals a persistent divide in disaster recovery efforts. Advocates argue these businesses employ many workers and contribute economically, and thus deserve equal aid access.
The exclusion leaves adult industry companies searching for support elsewhere. Their exclusion raises broader questions about inclusivity and fairness in relief distribution during crises.
The Bigger Picture
As grants begin distribution, the adult industry’s exclusion underscores challenges faced by marginalized businesses in accessing recovery funds. The debate continues about how to create equitable aid programs that recognize all local economic contributors.
For now, those in the adult entertainment sector affected by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires must explore alternate sources of assistance despite being part of impacted communities.
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