A life-changing decision: One man’s journey from homeless and hopeless to sheltered and determined

While Evan was homeless on the streets of Chico, he struggled to break free from methamphetamine addiction. At the same time, he found it impossible to manage his insulin-dependent diabetes.

Over several years, his mental and physical health declined. He became homeless after a breakup, and while living on the streets, he rarely saw his daughter. He missed her. He wanted to quit, but “it was a major struggle.”

“I was out there in my own personal hell,” he said. “I did not care what happened to me.”

Then, in late 2018, Evan was hospitalized. He had developed frostbite, and six and a half of his toes were amputated. After a lengthy recovery from a variety of health issues, Evan chose to go to the Torres Shelter in early 2019.

That’s when his life dramatically changed for the better.

At first, Evan was shy and withdrawn, and often lashed out at staff members, his case manager Brittiney said.

As the pair worked together over the past year, Brittiney continued encouraging him and pushing him to take charge of his life and his health.

“I think that this effort showed Evan that we really care,” she said. He opened up and “just kind of blossomed.”

Evan has stayed clean and sober since he was hospitalized, about 16 months now, and he’s taking his medications and keeping his diabetes under control. He has a stable income and is awaiting Section 8 housing.

Nowadays, it’s rare to see Evan without a smile on his face.

“I went from shy, kept to myself, kept my head down to, as time flew by, now I’m constantly in a goofy mood, always laughing, always cheerful, respectful and kind,” Evan said.

Evan said his time at the Torres Shelter has really helped him get his life back together. Now, he is looking forward to what comes next, he said, and he’s been able to see his daughter more regularly. The days he spends with her are the happiest in his life.

“The Torres Shelter has made a lot of difference in my life,” he said. “A lot of people here have actually become my family.”