East County Seasonal Shelter to Open
St. Vincent’s – Experienced Seasonal Shelter Operator – Will Manage Facility

   SAN DIEGO — A seasonal shelter for homeless families with children and single adults living in East County will open on Thursday, January 16, at 12 p.m., at 1305 North Marshall in El Cajon.

   A tent-like sprung structure has been erected on the site and will accommodate up to 150 individuals nightly. The facility will remain open until March 31, 2003, and during the next several weeks will provide respite from San Diego’s cold winter weather while also offering residents resources to alter the circumstances which have led to their becoming homeless.

   City of El Cajon officials struggled for weeks, but eventually established a winter shelter program in response to local Episcopal priest Father John Conrad’s crusade to offer East County homeless temporary housing over the winter months. Part of Father Conrad’s St. Alban’s Church property became a makeshift tent city for as many as 120 homeless family members with children and single adults, while officials worked to identify a site for the city-sponsored shelter.

   New clients will be welcomed to the seasonal shelter by President of St. Vincent’s, Father Joe Carroll, and Father Conrad. The residents will also enjoy a barbecue put on by the seasonal shelter staff.

   In addition to shelter, the 10-week program will offer clients services which include health screenings, employment assessments, job preparation and screenings and referrals for mental health, substance abuse, housing placements and other issues.

   "We’ve designed it to be as productive as possible," says Matt Packard, vice president of St. Vincent’s. "It is a strictly enforced sober-living environment with numerous opportunities to access more long-term rehabilitative services with appropriate agencies – our residents will not just be resting on their laurels for two months."

   The contract agreement with the city will pay the majority of operating costs and St. Vincent’s will absorb any additional expenses.

   "We’re actively seeking donations for this new endeavor," says Father Joe. "We need 80 mattresses, usable clothing, toiletries, baby supplies, school supplies for older children and good old fashioned cash for other unexpected expenses."

   Individuals interested in donating to or volunteering at the East County Seasonal Shelter may call (619) 687-1000.

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