Haircuts for Foster Kids: Confidence for a New School Year
By Jess Siegfried
Just before kids headed back to class, Community on Purpose hosted a Back to School Bash in partnership with AZ Barber Academy. Branching Out was so grateful to be a part of this experience, coming together alongside incredible partners to support foster youth across Arizona.
Together, compassionate barbers provided free back to school haircuts for foster youth across Arizona, while the event also offered so much more: professional school portraits, hygiene kits, new clothes, and backpacks filled with supplies for boys ages 11–18 living in foster group homes. With each snip, smile, and gift, these youth were reminded that they are seen, valued, and deserving of care. Parents and foster families shared how even something as simple as a haircut can boost confidence and empower a child as they step into a new school year.
This event was made possible thanks to the support of generous partners and volunteers, including AZ Barber Academy, The Dapper Photo Booth, JD Barba, Branching Out, Melissa Sherman at Fairway Mortgage, Clothes Cabin, and Confidence Kits, who came together with open hearts and helping hands. By offering practical support wrapped in compassion, our community created moments of belonging and lifted up kids in foster care, one positive experience at a time.