● Programs
Black Hair & Cultural Care
The Black Hair and Cultural Care Program (BHCC) exists to affirm and support every child of African descent in Oregon’s foster care system, past and present, by preserving cultural connection through Black hair care. Through initiatives such as the Black Hair Cultural Care Kit (“The Kit”), braiding circles, styling demos, and natural hair career support, the project provides culturally specific tools, education, and community-based experiences for youth and their families. BHCC also desires to supplement what is needed so the youth feel beautiful, seen, and self-assured.
● Program Overview
Hair is Identity
We hope that all children of African descent in Oregon remain connected to culture and gain/maintain a sense of self, even as they navigate separation from family and/or community. Guided by the Black Community Guide, the program seeks to ensure that kids of African descent and their resource/kinship families remain knowledgeable about where to find Black community, organizations, resources, programming, and support throughout the State of Oregon, in order to meet and/or supplement their cultural needs.
"The Kit"
A culturally-specific hair care kit and care package (products, tools, accessories, instructional booklet) sent out to every child of African descent as they enter foster care. In addition, we hope to support children currently placed in a resource home, those in kinship families, and those who are aging out. We'd also like to provide "refills" of items as they run out, or if damaged.
Care & Styling Demonstrations
Interactive workshops offered throughout the year for youth, foster/resource parents, and kinship caregivers. Each session provides foundational skills and styling techniques for Black hair, increasing youth and caregivers’ confidence and children’s self-esteem.
Braiding Circles
Quarterly social events designed for elementary and middle school youth. These gatherings are inspired by traditional salon culture and provide a space for connection, conversation, and hair braiding (on doll heads), encouraging cultural expression and exploration in an informal, affirming environment.
Natural Hair Career Support
One-on-one support, group support, and internships for young adults interested in the field of natural hair care and hair design. This element of the program supports workforce development while celebrating Black beauty traditions. Young adults will have access to experiential learning and practice through the Braiding Circles and Cultural Hair Care and Styling Demonstrations.
● Kit Overview
What’s in a kit?
Kits vary based on gender, age, and seasonality of products. Click below to peruse what goes into a bag!
● Kits
Order a kit!
Black Hair and Cultural Care Kits are available for youth who are Black, African-American, and/or of African descent between the ages of 7 and 23. Youth within this age range are welcome to place an order directly. Familial caretakers- including foster parents, kinship caregivers, and adoptive parents- may also order a kit on behalf of an eligible youth to help ensure they have access to culturally affirming hair care and support.
Spotlighted Hair Care Resources
DHS Specialized Hair Care Resource
Children and teens who have hair and skin care needs that require specialized practices, products, and techniques, often due to cultural, ethnic, or religious factors are eligible for a monthly allotment of up to $250 is available for each child
Elegant Boutique Beauty Supply
Most of our hair care products are sourced from local shop Elegant Boutique as a way to keep resources circulating within Black-owned businesses and ensure youth have access to culturally relevant, high-quality products. Elegant Boutique is Oregon’s first and only mobile beauty supply store, providing products that reflect identity, support healthy hair practices, and honor the importance of cultural care as part of dignity-centered services.
Thank you to our donors, collaborators and supporters!
This program is made possible by our generous funders, as well as the incredible support of the following organizations and individuals:
The Collins Foundation
Nycole Mason, Elegant Boutique
Bahia Overton, Executive Director, Black Parent Initiative
Nycole Mason, Owner, Elegant Boutique
Afrita Davis, Coach, Facilitator, and Trainer
Krystal Ngene, Staffing Director, Nonprofit Professionals Now
Sonya Moore
● Contact
Request Information
Want to learn more about the program or how you can support? Please reach out to us to learn more about our Black Hair & Cultural Care proram.