Day 166 at the 16th St. Plaza Mumblz, Mugzy and Richie

On Sunday evening, the east side of Mission Street in San Francisco was crowded with vendors and drug users, contrasting sharply with the quiet earlier in the day. Local residents, including Mumblz, who has spent 13 years on the streets, shared their struggles with addiction and temporary housing. She expressed concerns about her health and the quality of the drugs she uses, stating, "You have to be ready for it," regarding addiction services. Her companion, Richie, noted his sense of freedom while living on the streets, asserting that he prefers it to paying exorbitant rent. The presence of city workers and police often disperses the crowd, but they tend to return after dark, highlighting the complex relationship between authorities and the community.

The article underscores the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized individuals in the Mission District, illustrating a dynamic that reflects broader societal issues regarding homelessness and addiction. Furthermore, the temporary housing situation is complicated by the impending shutdown of the Mission Cabins, which impacts residents like Mumblz. This situation emphasizes the need for long-term solutions to address homelessness in urban areas.