Local businesses in Brentwood, Los Angeles, faced significant challenges last week when they were forced to shut down due to a precautionary power outage aimed at preventing potential fire ignitions. The decision came as fire department personnel were stretched to their limits, battling multiple wildfires across the region. Despite the disruption, the community demonstrated resilience and generosity in the face of adversity.
Goran Milic, owner of Divino on Barrington Court, turned the downtime into an opportunity to give back. Rather than closing his doors entirely, Milic worked tirelessly to prepare meals for the first responders who were risking their lives to protect homes and businesses. His actions not only nourished the firefighters but also inspired other community members to find ways to contribute.
Meanwhile, the team at Belwood Bakery, located just across the way, took swift action to safeguard their business. Fearing a fate similar to businesses along Sunset Boulevard in the Palisades, which had suffered losses from the fires, they carefully packed up cherished photos, essential equipment, and inventory. They relocated these items to their Northridge location, ensuring the survival of their bakery operations even if the Brentwood shop were to be impacted.
Local businesses like the vacuum repair shop and pilates studio hurt whenever their businesses are shuttered as their margins are thin to begin with. "We serve the community and we need the community to survive, so I hope people will consider shopping and using our area storefronts," one shop owner along San Vicente opined.
Other small businesses in the area also adapted creatively to the crisis. Many restaurants donated perishable food to shelters and community centers, while retailers set up online operations to maintain sales. These efforts highlighted the strong sense of community in Brentwood, where neighbors and local business owners rallied together, proving that even in the face of natural disasters, unity and resilience can prevail.
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