West Park Barber School Provides Free Haircuts and Mentorship for Teens at Laura’s Home

CLEVELAND, OH — Cleveland currently holds the highest child poverty rate among large cities in the United States, a reality that creates a constant, urgent demand for emergency shelter and family services. At the center of the local response is Laura's Home Women's and Children's Crisis Center, a Puritas Avenue facility operated by The City Mission. It is one of the few locations in the region designed to keep families together, ensuring that mothers are not separated from their teenage sons during their stay. The demand for these beds is relentless. On any given day, The City Mission manages a wait list of more than 200 women and children seeking safety. According to Linda Uveges, CEO of The City Mission, the organization's goal goes beyond basic survival. Uveges said that behind every number is a story of a mother fighting to rebuild and a child navigating uncertainty, and she believes that while shelter is the start, restoring dignity is what truly changes a life. A recent partnership with West Park Barber School is putting that philosophy into practice by providing free haircuts for the teenage boys living at the center. While a haircut might seem like a small detail, it is a significant factor for teens trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. These young men often attend local schools and try to build friendships while simultaneously processing the trauma of homelessness. The barbers from the school, located on Lorain Avenue, are trained in trauma-informed care. This ensures the environment is one of encouragement rather than just a transaction. Patrick, a barber at West Park Barber School, said the partnership is about showing these young people they are seen and valued. The program also serves as a mentorship bridge, as barbers often talk with the teens about their futures and personal goals. There is a long-term vision for this collaboration that extends beyond the barber chair. The City Mission is currently exploring scholarship opportunities for older teens who might be interested in pursuing barbering as a career path, offering a potential route toward financial independence. It is a practical way to address the cycle of poverty that affects so many families in the West Park neighborhood and beyond. The City Mission continues to accept donations and volunteer support to help manage its extensive wait list and daily operations. Residents looking to contribute, or families in need of assistance, can reach the organization at 216-431-3510. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.