• New tool makes applying for benefits faster and easier,Eliza Bethalper

    New tool makes applying for benefits faster and easier

    By Cassie N. Saunders, County of San Diego Communications Office (San Diego) – A new BenefitsCal feature called Truv now helps CalFresh, CalWORKs, Medi-Cal and County General Relief applicants save time, reduce paperwork and avoid mailing costs. The tool launched July 20, 2026, and verifies income a

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  • Santee attains “Fire Risk Reduction Community” status,Eliza Bethalper

    Santee attains “Fire Risk Reduction Community” status

    East County News Service (Santee) — The City of Santee has been designated a Fire Risk Reduction Community, recognizing local efforts to reduce wildfire risk and improve community resilience. Why does this matter? California regulations require insurance companies to consider a community’s Fire Risk

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  • Male body and deceased dog found inside burning El Cajon home,Eliza Bethalper

    Male body and deceased dog found inside burning El Cajon home

    East County News Service (El Cajon) – Heartland Fire & Rescue crews responded to a residential fire at 1433 Melody Lane in El Cajon on August 22 at 1:56 a.m., where they found the front of the home fully involved in flames.  They entered the home in emergency rescue mode, due to a report of a possib

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