SALON OWNER GIVES BACK TO HELP OTHERS AT HAIRCUTS FOR HOMELESS EVENT

By Shiloh  Ireland

May 21, 2023 (Lakeside) – Ginger Rich, owner of Reflections Salon and Day Spa in Lakeside was once homeless in San Diego.  Because of those who believed in her, she is now a successful businesses woman owning the salon for over seven years.

Each year, she’s held Haircuts for the Homeless, an outreach event to help those in need, offering not only haircuts, but also clothing, food, and personal essentials. In addition,  several organizations from county to private offered services and resources.

ECM arrived prior to opening and the event was already underway, with approximately 100 individuals selecting clothing, receiving haircuts and enjoying lunch.

“We do this to for kindness and to give back to the community,” Rich told ECM. “There was a time when I was younger, I was homeless and there were those who believed in me and that my homelessness  did not define me.”

Rich believes there are approximately 75 homeless individuals in Lakeside. I want to let them know that they are loved and to pay it forward,” she said.

Rich is grateful for how far she has come and the accomplishments she has made. She is also grateful for all the agencies attending with their resources and all the volunteers.

Oggi's Pizza of Santee and Mary's Doughnuts donated snacks and lunch.

Photo, right: Mary Rich, salon owner, and Joel Scalzitti, owner of Mary's Doughnuts

“ It is an honor to see all the people helping and paying it forward,” Rich concluded.

Photo,left: Famliy Health Centers of San Diego was among the service providers present to aid those experiencing homelessness.