El Cajon’s refugee and immigrant community remains a visible part of East County life, but local families and service providers are navigating new uncertainty as federal refugee and immigration policies shift, according to KPBS.

The report describes downtown El Cajon as a hub for Middle Eastern and North African refugee and immigrant communities, including Chaldean, Kurdish, Syrian, Afghan and other residents who have built businesses, churches and support networks over several decades.

KPBS reported that License to Freedom, founded in 2002 by Dilkhwaz Ahmed, provides services including language and business classes, housing navigation, therapy and support groups. Ahmed told KPBS more people are seeking services and looking for a safe place to talk without fear of punishment or deportation.

The story also points to broader federal changes, including a refugee ban and a lower refugee admissions cap, as part of the pressure now felt by families and service organizations. KPBS cited local voices who said refugee communities continue to rely on neighborhood ties, cultural institutions and nonprofit support.

For Santee and East County residents, the issue is not abstract national politics. El Cajon’s refugee community is part of the same regional economy, school network and civic life that connects communities across East County.