San Diego Migrant Shelter Closes, Over 100 Laid Off

The Jewish Family Service of San Diego has announced the closure of its migrant shelter and the layoff of 115 employees due to changes in federal funding and policy under the Trump administration. Since the shutdown of the CBP One phone app on January 20, which previously facilitated the entry of asylum-seekers, the shelter has not received any new arrivals. Originally designed to streamline cargo inspections, the app was expanded to help migrants book appointments to enter the U.S. under the Biden administration's 'lawful pathways' initiative. With no new asylum-seeking families being admitted since the app's closure, the shelter will pause its services until future community needs are assessed. The organization plans to focus on providing pro bono legal services and community support resources going forward. CEO Michael Hopkins noted an increase in requests for legal assistance, indicating a shift in the type of support being sought within the community.