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

The streets around 16th and Mission in San Francisco saw a surge of vendors and drug users in the evening, contrasting sharply with the quieter daytime hours. A morning walk revealed fewer homeless individuals, reflecting a possible shift in the community's composition. Conversations with residents like Mumblz, a 38-year-old woman who has been homeless for over a decade, highlight the complexities of addiction and the fleeting nature of temporary housing options. She mentioned her ongoing struggles with fentanyl and crack, while expressing ambivalence about accepting offered addiction services. Another resident, Richie, shared his perspective on finding freedom in homelessness, criticizing societal norms and the government.

He noted a respectful relationship with local police, despite being on opposite sides of the law. This article sheds light on the persistent challenges of homelessness and addiction, raising concerns about the effectiveness of local outreach programs. The upcoming closure of Mission Cabins for construction of affordable housing further complicates the situation for individuals like Mumblz.