Arizona Foster and Adoption Alliance is a newly established nonprofit dedicated to supporting fostered and adopted youth through one of the most under-addressed yet deeply personal needs: haircare and hygiene. With the belief that "When you look better, you feel better," our organization seeks funding to launch and expand a program that offers free, professional haircare and hygiene services for children and families in need. 

In many cases, children are placed in homes of different racial or cultural backgrounds, which can create confusion and difficulty when it comes to proper haircare routines—especially for children of color. Foster and adoptive parents often reach out for guidance, revealing a widespread need for education, access, and support in this area. We aim to fill this critical gap by providing in-person services, educational workshops, and hygiene supply kits to ensure every child feels seen, supported, and confident in their identity. 

Arizona’s foster care system serves thousands of children each year, many of whom come from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. However, the physical and emotional needs tied to haircare and personal grooming are often neglected in the foster and adoption process. 

Children who do not receive proper haircare may struggle with self-esteem, bullying, and emotional well-being. Additionally, their caregivers may lack the knowledge or resources to manage culturally specific haircare routines. This neglect—though often unintentional—can have lasting effects on a child’s mental and emotional health.