A man in need gets his haircut during an event at Our Place Society in Victoria on June 9.
An organization in Greater Victoria that serves the city’s most vulnerable provided free haircuts, manicures and massages to men in need Friday.
The event, called Handsome Day, was co-ordinated by Erin Stott, a part-time employee who used Our Place Society services in the past. She hosted a similar event for women in February.
“I’ve been doing the days for ladies for such a long time, I didn’t think it was fair that the men went without a special day for them,” Stott said.
Stott said she hopes to make Handsome Day an annual event and said the men have been letting her know they appreciate the services.
“It’s just so overwhelming,” Stott said.
“It’s totally a labour of love.”
One of the attendees, Karl, said it was his first time receiving a manicure.
“It feels good,” Karl said.
“It’s nice to have a little dignity put on us.”
All the men who attended the free event also received gift bags, pizza and cupcakes.
“I think it’s really good for the demographic, really good for this community,” Karl said.
“It’s really good for the people helping out because they get to sort of interact with us a little bit and find out we’re not too much different than they are. It evens the bar.”
Our Place Society provides free meals, hot showers, clothing, counselling and outreach services to those in need. They also help out with education, job skills and provide transitional housing units.
Alexa Huffman
