AS

Nilson Garrido is an ex-marketer, ex-waste collector and ex-security guard. Nilson created the "Garrido Boxing Project" by setting up a boxing ring under the Cafe Viaduct shortly after being evicted. The project is maintained by donations from regulars and encourages the practice of boxing in order to rescue former drug addicts and reintegrate homeless people into society while revealing hidden talents. The project grew, started to occupy the area under the Alcantara Machado viaduct, and, in addition to a boxing ring, has equipment donated by a gym, a library, and also serves as home to Garrido. With the social distance caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the closure of non-essential spaces, Nilson has survived with small donations and charities. Street marketers donate food, and the space has even served as a parking lot. Essay for Getty Images.