Disparate Lives on Skid Row

ON THE EDGE: From his apartment, Thomas Reid can hear gunshots and screams and see prostitutes arguing over turf. Loft dwellers are part of the solution to downtown’s woes, he says, as long as revitalization includes adequate housing and services, and safer streets for merchants and residents of all income levels.  (Francine Orr / LAT)

Thomas Reid (middle), walks his dog “Amor,” past the Hotel Cecil.  (Francine Orr / LAT)

CONTRAST: Thomas Reid walks his dog near the upscale apartment he recently moved into. The nurse, who wanted to be part of downtown’s renaissance, was “blown away” by the despair he found.  (Francine Orr / LAT)

LONG-TIMER: Evelyn says she has lived on San Julian Street in the skid row area for 10 years. She’s 48 and just not ready to move on. When she’s 50, she says, she’ll have it together.  (Francine Orr / LAT)

Eduardo Castro, 56, shows photographs of his family to Los Angeles Times reporter Steve Lopez. Castro stands next to his desk beneath his bed. He is inside the dark dorm room at The Midnight Mission.  (Francine Orr / LAT)

Volunteer Michelle Sun (middle), 11, listened to Eduardo Castro (right), 56, speak with volunteers from the “Great Enlightenment Lotus Society.” They were participating is the adopt-a-day program.  (Francine Orr / LAT)

FAITH: Eduardo Castro, 56, attends church services on Sunday evening at The Midnight Mission, in Los Angeles.  (Francine Orr / LAT)