Dozens of homeless people in Hartford were treated to a day at the salon on Monday as part of the 3rd Annual Haircuts for Humanity.
“It’s just a great day. It’s exciting to come in and meet the people that come in from the shelters, you know hearing their stories and making them feel good,” said Kevin Irish, the owner of United Artists Salon, where the event was held.
Journey Home, an organization that seeks to end homelessness in Connecticut, arranged for transportation from homeless shelters across Hartford to the salon.
“To allow them an opportunity to stop, to take a breather, to be pampered, it’s really something very powerful,” said Sara Salomons, the director of development and communications for Journey Home.
Elizabeth DeJesus and her three children spent the morning being pampered. The last time DeJesus had her hair cut in a salon was 10 years ago.
“It’s going to feel good. Finally something for me,” DeJesus said.
DeJesus was even more excited to treat her daughter, who has naturally curly hair.
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“It’s awesome. No words can describe it. My daughter has been asking me for a haircut. For her hair, it’s a lot of money,” DeJesus said.
Haircuts for Humanity and many of the other programs that Journey Home runs could be in jeopardy now that the City of Hartford could cut its budget by $86,000. That is why the organization is relying on private donations now more than ever and encouraging people to sponsor a haircut for $25.
“It’s sad to say that Connecticut’s budget is not doing well. I think the less fortunate are going to be even less fortunate. So it’s good to support things like this,” Irish said.
