Many foster children may experience feelings of inadequacy about their appearance and often have little to no control over their situation. Because of circumstances beyond their control, they can be vulnerable to bullying or mistreatment and may even lack the access and resources necessary for basic health, wellness, and beauty care. Mothers and fathers who are caring for children of different ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds often find themselves unequipped to care for their child’s appearance.

The Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers professional haircare and styling services to children 18 and under in the foster care system in Kalamazoo, Calhoun, and Van Buren counties and their parents — at no cost to the family. But the benefits are not just cosmetic. Fueled by the belief that everyone should have access to quality services to enhance their natural beauty, the Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation bridges the gap when families take on the uncertainties and challenges of caring for children of different racial groups by educating foster parents on proper upkeep and beauty care for their unique child.

Lalonie Willhite, founder of the Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation, often receives feedback from foster parents that their child’s confidence has allowed them to focus more on school rather than feeling inadequate about their appearance. The foundation helps alleviate some of the emotional and mental burden off the parent’s shoulders, which positively impacts not only the family, but also the community.

Their team of experienced stylists mostly provides services to children in need in the BIPOC, LGBTQ, and European communities, but will serve any child that fits the criteria and treat them with professionalism, respect, and dignity. The Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation is currently located in downtown Kalamazoo but plans to expand online to serve those key groups in need worldwide.

For more information about the Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation, call (269) 443-2454 or visit their website. If you would like to make a donation, you can do so here.

Brought to you by the Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation.