Evan* became homeless when he was just 19. 

He came to YSM initially to visit our Evergreen Health and Dental Centre, but instead ended up eating a hot meal, having a shower, and getting clothes, including a t-shirt that became a favourite. 

“I never forgot that—the positivity of being there, getting free food,” Evan says. “I wore that t-shirt until it disintegrated.” 

Years later, Evan was working a maintenance job when a friend encouraged him to apply for an opening at YSM. After he started work, he was surprised to discover himself back in the place where he’d appreciated that meal years before. 

“I think God brought me here now to help others,” he says. “Every day, I am part of this community. YSM is doing things that need to be done—I wish I could go to the rooftops and yell, ‘Come here, try this! Come for free, get the services, and get your life together!’ As I’m working, I see the care managers following up with people, I see people coming back. Once they get touched by YSM, it changes their lives for the better. People genuinely care.” 

At YSM, Evan has also taken further strides in his own life. His job made it possible for him to move into his first apartment. He began to try some of the classes at Bridges. He mentions what it meant to him when his boss gave him new opportunities at work, and when his co-workers came to his grandmother’s funeral. 

“I felt out of place before,” Evan explains, “but our team is like a giant family that just wants to help people.” 

*Name and image have been changed to protect community member’s privacy.