Haircut program changing how homeless people see themselves
Niagara’s Mobile Closet offers people experiencing homelessness free haircuts
Through a program run by Niagara’s Mobile Closet, through Start Me Up Niagara, stylists from Alessandro Salon are providing haircuts to homeless people during the last Monday of each month.
The program, which has been running for about two years, started as a service during Niagara’s Mobile Closet events that popped up in neighbourhoods to give people access to free clothing.
“We were looking for hairstylists because it’s a service our clients can’t afford, so they can’t just walk into a hairdresser or a barber shop like we do,” said Lynn McIntyre, co-ordinator of the haircutting program.
McIntyre said there’s a therapeutic aspect that goes beyond losing locks.
“It’s not a matter of the superficial beauty of having a haircut, it’s more a matter of the kindness, the conversation, the touch and the acceptance. They get that when they come in here,” McIntyre said.
“Many times, when people see somebody who’s unsheltered on the street, they’re not going to have a conversation. So, when they come here, that acceptance is here, and they get a fabulous haircut, and it makes a difference in their day.”
She said people who come in Start Me Up Niagara, at 203 Church St. in St. Catharines, are “thrilled to have their hair cut.”
“Many times, they’re not making eye contact, they’re keeping to themselves, but when their hair is done and the girls show them the results there’s a smile.”
Barber Vanessa Fortino said she believes it’s businesses’ duty to give back to the community of which they are a part.
“Many people don’t realize how important getting a haircut is,” she said.
“Not only is it good if you want to get a job or you’re looking to get back on your feet, the confidence you get from a haircut makes you feel better,” she said.
“Volunteering our time is really important to us for that reason,” she said.