Salinas, California, is a city known for its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant communities. However, there is one particular area that stands out, referred to as China Town or the ghetto. Despite growing up in Salinas, the author of this account had always been warned to steer clear of this neighborhood. It wasn’t until recently, at the age of 36, that they ventured into China Town for a job interview as a Social Worker aiming to assist the homeless population in finding housing.
The moment they entered the neighborhood, the stark contrast from the rest of Salinas became apparent. China Town felt like a separate city, deliberately isolated from the rest of the area. Roads leading into the neighborhood were blocked off, creating a sense of seclusion, effectively keeping people out and confining the homeless within its borders. The streets were teeming with individuals, giving the impression of an overcrowded space. Unpleasant odors of urine and feces permeated the air, painting a distressing picture. Read the full story here ▶
