When Portrett Busby reflects on the Eaton Fire that swept through Altadena last January, she doesn't just remember what was lost—she celebrates the incredible community support that helped her family rise from the ashes.

The fire took two precious multi-generational homes that had been in the Busby family for years, structures filled with memories, photographs, and the tangible history of her loved ones. It was a devastating blow that could have broken many families. Instead, it became a testament to human resilience and the power of community coming together in times of crisis.

"We lost the buildings, but we didn't lose each other," Busby shared, reflecting on the year-long journey since that fateful day. In the immediate aftermath of the fire, when the reality of their loss was still overwhelming, help arrived in forms both large and small.

The Salvation Army emerged as a cornerstone of support throughout the Busby family's recovery process. From the earliest days after the fire through the present, the organization has provided consistent assistance, helping the family navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of rebuilding their lives. Their support went beyond material aid—it offered hope during the darkest moments.

What makes the Busby family's story particularly heartwarming is how it illustrates the strength found in community bonds. Neighbors, local organizations, and complete strangers rallied around families affected by the Eaton Fire, proving that compassion knows no boundaries. This network of support became a lifeline, offering everything from temporary housing assistance to emotional encouragement.

One year later, while the recovery journey continues, the Busby family has made remarkable progress. They've learned to treasure what truly matters—family connections, community solidarity, and the resilience of the human spirit. The multi-generational homes may be gone, but the multi-generational love and strength that built them remains stronger than ever.

Portrett's willingness to share her family's story serves an important purpose beyond personal catharsis. It reminds other disaster survivors that they're not alone and that recovery, while challenging, is absolutely possible with the right support systems in place. Her openness about both the struggles and the victories offers hope to others facing similar circumstances.

The Eaton Fire recovery efforts have showcased Southern California communities at their finest—neighbors helping neighbors, organizations stepping up without hesitation, and families like the Busbys demonstrating that adversity can bring out the best in people rather than the worst.

As the Busby family continues rebuilding, they carry forward not just the memory of what was lost, but also gratitude for the countless acts of kindness that helped them through their darkest days. Their story is a powerful reminder that while natural disasters can destroy homes, they cannot destroy the human capacity for compassion, resilience, and renewal.