Zach & Elena

Zach and Elena struggle with addiction on the streets of San Francisco. Meeting three years ago, the inseparable couple are now on a journey to support each other in overcoming their habit together.

"We want people to see us as more than just addicts."

Elena lays in Zach's lap inside a beach cave commonly used by the homeless. The two of them struggle with heroin addiction together on the streets of San Francisco.
"We want people to see us as more than just addicts"

A cave many of San Francisco's homeless choose to stay temporaily. At the very end of the beach, most residents avoid the area. The closest houses are visible in the background.

Zach & Elena sit in their beach cave with all their belongings. Struggling with heroin addiction together on the streets of San Francisco, the two of them support each other to overcome their habits.

Elena works on a coloring book. Meeting three years ago, the two really compliment each other throughout their hardships - Zach is clever yet anxious while Elena is carefree and sweet.

Elena lays in Zach's lap as he gently strokes her hair. Meeting three years ago, the two have been inseparable since.

"We want to help each other overcome our habits and buy a little house together".

Elena falls asleep in Zach's lap. Meeting three years ago, the two have been inseparable since.

"I fell asleep on my coloring book last night" - Elena jokes as she tries to hide permanent marker blotches off her face.

The beach looking out from Zach & Elena's cave. Though clearly visible to beach goers, most go out of their way to avoid the area.

Meeting three years ago, the two really compliment each other throughout their hardships - Zach is clever yet anxious while Elena is carefree and sweet.

Zach displays some minerals he collected. The two of them sell minerals they find on the street to support themselves.

Zach & Elena wave from their cave.

Zach and Elena now volunteer as HIV & Hepetitis C test counselors and community outreach in the Tenderloin of San Francisco.