I think people often confuse uncomfortable with unsafe. This is probably especially true when someone isn't used to being around people with some pretty serious adverse life experiences.
Drug addicts and homeless people should really barely register on your danger meter. More dangerous than the average person? Possibly. The same as strolling through a gang neighbourhood? Not remotely.
Poverty and drug addiction are uncomfortable, yes, but likely the worst thing that will happen to you in DTES is getting talked to. The. Horror.
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