After experiencing homelessness, Nathan found stability, recovery and “a second chance at life.”
“When I first became homeless, I didn’t know what to do, it was a real shock.”
At 41 years old, Nathan found himself without a stable place to live. For a short time, he slept in his van. When he no longer had access to it, he was unsheltered in Carlsbad without a safe place to sleep.
In November 2025, Nathan began working with CRC’s Rapid Rehousing program, which helps individuals and families move from homelessness into housing with case management and support to help them stabilize. Shortly after being connected to services, Nathan made the decision to enter detox and begin a substance use treatment program.
While in treatment, Nathan stayed actively engaged with his CRC case manager. Together, they worked to identify housing, complete paperwork and prepare for the transition into a home of his own. His case manager also helped him build a budget, attended court with him and wrote a letter of support on his behalf. “That meant a lot to me that she was there,” Nathan said. “I don’t have any family here.”
In February 2026, Nathan moved into a safe apartment of his own. CRC helped provide furniture and household items, including a bed and bed frame. “I didn’t have anything but my backpack and my bike, and that was it,” Nathan said. “I hadn’t slept in a bed in a long time.”
Nathan still remembers the day he moved in, sharing:
“It felt incredible to have four walls and my own apartment. That day it was raining, and it was such a good reminder of how thankful I am for what I have. When it does rain, it’s really tough when you’re homeless. To have my own bathroom, and all the things I took for granted – it’s incredible to have it back.”
The transition has been gradual. After years in survival mode when he was unsheltered, Nathan describes this chapter as a slow but hopeful process of finding stability again. With steady support, he is taking meaningful steps forward.
“This was a second chance at life. Now I have a part-time job at a grocery store and I’m hoping to apply for jobs in archeology again.”
For Nathan, CRC’s support was more than housing assistance. It was having people walk alongside him through each step of the transition, people who showed up, listened and cared.
“CRC has people who really care. They go above and beyond and do what they can to help you. I’m picking my life back up. I couldn’t have done it without you guys.”
Today, Nathan encourages others facing hardship to reach out for support.
“Ask for help,” he said. “I was on the street because I didn’t want to ask for help. Don’t give up.”
