Evelyn, executive chef. Long Island City, NY (2019)
“I’ve been executive chef for three years now. I supervise 9 people and it’s a great experience and a great challenge. I get to be creative and build relationships with all kinds of people. The job comes with a little bit of stress but I’m proud of myself to see the role I am in.”
“I was arrested at the age of 18 and came home when I was 36. I had a lot of trials and tribulations coming home to New York City. I was by myself because my family was in Puerto Rico. Today I’m an executive chef, I have a wife, family, apartment. And my life continues. I’m on a roll, always looking for betterment in my life.”
Evelyn and Andrea waiting to get married. Queens, NY (2018)
“We’ve known each other only 9 months but I just know it’s right. I can’t explain it.”
Evelyn, two-and-a-half years after her release, with her partner’s son, age 9. Long Island City, NY (2014)
“I’m a kid without a kid. When I was a kid, I didn’t have so much time to play around. I was busy. I was the only girl. I had two small brothers and I had to take care of them and work. Spending time with these kids lets me goof around and be silly. I feel joyous when I’m with them.”
Money order to the Department of Correctional Services.
“When you’re on parole, you have to pay a fee. I don’t know what it’s for. It feels like I’m paying for my freedom. If you don’t have a job, you don’t have to pay, or maybe $5 a month. I have to pay $30 a month, which is the maximum. I’ve been paying from the very beginning.”
Evelyn and Andrea at home. Queens, NY (2019)
“Getting married was the best decision of my life. It’s almost two years now.”
Evelyn, the only woman member of the softball team of a law firm which frequents her cafe. East River Park, New York City (2015)
Evelyn at work in a corporate cafe several months before her promotion to sous chef. New York City (2014)
“When I came home, I got a grant and went to a culinary program. My dream job is to work for a nice restaurant. ‘Evelyn, Sous Chef.’ Or to have my own food truck — Spanish food. I cook like my grandma. That’s the best instructor you can have. Everything she cooked was natural.”
Evelyn walking her dogs after work. Queens, NY (2019)
“Andrea gave me my first dog before she went back to her country to see her family. She didn’t want me to be by myself. She knows me so well. I love the dogs.”
