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Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Warren County is expanding its efforts to support children and families while renewing a call for volunteers to help meet growing community needs.
CASA Executive Director Kelsey Howard discussed a new community partnership that provides free haircuts for children in need, regardless of whether they are served by CASA.
The program, created in partnership with local barber Chris Holtby at Perfect Image Salon, is designed to remove a common financial burden for struggling families while protecting the privacy of CASA clients. Rather than limiting the service to CASA participants, vouchers are available to anyone in the community who qualifies, helping avoid identifying children involved in the child welfare system.
“A haircut is something many people don’t think about,” Howard said. “But when money is tight or a family is caring for several children, it can become an expense that’s pushed aside. This is one small way we can help.”
Vouchers are being distributed through several community organizations, including the Women’s Care Center and directly to families served by CASA. Recipients simply contact CASA for a voucher before scheduling an appointment.
The haircut initiative joins several other community partnerships aimed at meeting everyday needs. Recently, members of a local Presbyterian church donated hygiene products after asking CASA what items families use most often.
“It’s the everyday necessities that can really add up,” Howard said. “Anything we can do to help families in our community makes a difference.”
Despite these efforts, CASA continues to face a shortage of volunteers. The organization currently serves 22 children, with 12 still waiting to be matched with volunteer advocates. At present, CASA has only eight active volunteers.
Volunteer advocates are appointed by the court to represent the best interests of children involved in abuse and neglect cases, providing consistent support throughout the legal process.
Residents interested in volunteering with CASA or learning more about available community programs are encouraged to contact the organization.