San Francisco Ironicle

If someday you happen to find me shoeless, sleeping on a sewer grate, screaming incoherently at the sky, and shitting in the middle of the sidewalk, please don’t concern yourself with my rights. Bring me somewhere safe and make me stay there until I’m ready to not live like that.

I moved to SF in late 90’s and ended up seriously homeless. Slept outside for many months and in every shelter in the city: Sanctuary, Glide, Next Door, MSC, etc. I ate from garbage cans and at every food pantry in this city. Eventually, I got on my feet. I know the struggle.

I have a unique perspective because I’m not just a spectator or an outsider with a POV, I LIVED the life. Slept next to the guys people pass on the street everyday. Talked with them. Ate with them. Showered in homeless shelters. There’s much outsiders will never understand.

Thanks for sharing your story. Glad you were able to overcome those struggles. SF definitely needs more voices like yours since you have experience and actually know what you’re talking about. What do you think would be most helpful for people on the streets with mental illness?