Day 163 at the 16th St. Plaza A Womans Place

City employees replaced the usual crowd of women outside A Woman’s Place shelter, conducting a power wash of the sidewalk. Lillyonna, a 31-year-old who sometimes stays at the shelter, expressed frustration over the lack of available beds, stating, “If it’s illegal to be homeless, we need more housing. ” She has encountered homeless outreach workers but noted their limitations in providing assistance. Lillyonna also seeks a case manager to help her develop life-management skills, reflecting the broader issue of inadequate support for the homeless population. She has pursued mental health assistance but faced setbacks after her mother's death.

The article illustrates the ongoing struggles of homelessness in San Francisco, emphasizing the need for more resources and housing solutions. The shelter accommodates 56 women, highlighting the limited capacity to meet demand. Lillyonna’s story underscores the personal impact of systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations in the city.