KHAIR (pronounced “care”) is a program aimed to boost self-esteem levels in at-risk youth. It is done by pairing a child with a hairstylist or barber. That hairstylist or barber in turn commits to providing monthly appointments for the child for one year. They are also asked to provide product and direction for routine hair maintenance. This is provided at no charge to the child.
The goal of the KHAIR program is to provide teenagers with the dignity and respect they deserve by enhancing their confidence levels. This is done by providing them with a safe and nurturing environment. It is also done by helping them address addressing self image issues. To ensure the maximum benefit, KHAIR kids are matched to a salon or barber shop that best suits their hair-specific needs. These salons and barber shops are selected based on their commitment to community service. They are also chosen based on their willingness to contribute to the well-being of the teens in the program.
Who KHAIRs? We care. And this is who we are:
Community Health Network of Connecticut Foundation, Inc.:
The Community Health Network of Connecticut Foundation, Inc. is a public, charitable organization concerned with the health of Connecticut residents. Founded in 2003, its mission is to advance, support and promote programs and activities that fundamentally improve the health care status of the people of Connecticut. Its goal is to support the activities of community health centers and other non-profit organizations that promote health care services to uninsured and medically underserved individuals, youth, children and families in Connecticut.
The Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization with an independent and non-funded board of directors. All donate their time to the Foundation without compensation. The Foundation has been designated by the IRS as a 501(c) 3 entity. Gifts to the Foundation are tax-exempt as charitable contributions.
Community Health Network of Connecticut, Inc.:
Community Health Network of Connecticut, Inc., “The One with the Sun,” is a not-for-profit, community-based health plan that provides free or low cost health insurance to children and families in Connecticut who qualify for the HUSKY (Healthcare for UninSured Kids and Youth in Connecticut) program. CHNCT also administers the state’s SAGA (State-Administered General Assistance) and Charter Oak programs. CHNCT is committed to building healthier communities throughout Connecticut in collaboration with its staff, health care professionals, provider sites and members.
Clifford W. Beers Guidance Clinic, Inc.:
Established in 1913, the Clifford W. Beers Guidance Clinic, Inc. is the oldest community-based, not-for-profit outpatient mental health clinic in the country. Clinic professionals work with children who have experienced behavioral issues, family violence, sexual abuse, substance abuse, as well as children and families affected by HIV/AIDS.
The Village for Families & Children, Inc.:
A private, Connecticut non-profit human services agency founded in 1809, is committed to building a community of strong, healthy families who protect and nurture children. Through its work with children and families, the Village has emerged as a preeminent mental health/human service agency serving the Hartford region and the state of Connecticut. Village services encompass three core areas of strength: Placement and Permanency (adoption, foster care and family preservation), Treatment, and Family and Community Support.
How can you KHAIR?
If you are an insured salon or barber shop, click here to download the KHAIR stylist application. You can apply to be a KHAIR salon by visiting www.chnct.org. you fill it out and send it back to us, a KHAIR coordinator will contact you to discuss the program further.
There are many kids within our community who could benefit from our KHAIR program. As an individual, you can talk to your hair stylist or barber about participating in the KHAIR program. You could be the link between a teenager in your community to a safe and nurturing environment.
You can also contribute by purchasing hair care products that KHAIR kids can use between monthly appointments. Please ask your salon for more information.
If you would like to contribute to the KHAIR program, please visit www.chnctfoundation.org
(All monetary and hair care donations are tax deductible.)
