Day 151 at the 16th St. Plaza Jay and Jeff, The customers are right here.
Jeff and Jay, two 40-year-old street vendors, sell stolen goods on 16th Street in San Francisco, targeting a sparse customer base despite police presence. Jeff, who moved from Sacramento, claims they can make money in the area, although he only made $20 by 3 p. m. on a Saturday. He offers instant coffee and ice cream at discounted prices, reflecting the desperation of their situation.
Jay, who moved from Vallejo, shares a close bond with Jeff, noting they nearly share the same birthday. The duo's operations highlight the ongoing struggles of street vendors, who face police scrutiny and a challenging marketplace. Jeff describes his merchandise as either stolen or bought from other vendors, indicating a cycle of theft and resale. The situation raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and its impact on local economies. As vendors seek to survive, they navigate the complexities of legality and necessity in a city known for its high cost of living.