El Cajon extends successful cabin shelter program for homeless women and children

El Cajon has approved the continuation of a successful program providing temporary shelter in small cabins for homeless women and children at Meridian Baptist Church. The program, run by nonprofit Amikas, has helped 78% of its clients find permanent housing since opening in December 2022. Previously labeled a pilot program with a set end date, the El Cajon City Council removed these restrictions on December 10, allowing the cabins to operate indefinitely. The village has housed 45 people, including 27 women and their children, with 21 women moving into permanent housing. The cabins are 12-feet by 12-feet, equipped with electricity but lacking plumbing. While there are discussions about expanding the program, funding limitations currently prevent the addition of more cabins.