Unity Gardens Hosts Community Haircuts with Re-Entry Program Inmates

Photo byabc57

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Unity Gardens recently hosted a unique community event, offering free haircuts and hot cakes as part of a monthly service project aimed at supporting the reintegration of inmates into society. This initiative, involving barbers who are nearing the end of their sentences and participating in the South Bend re-entry program, highlights the program’s commitment to fostering community bonds and social reintegration.

The event saw skilled barbers, who have earned their place in the re-entry program, providing haircuts while engaging with local residents. This interaction is designed to help inmates re-acquaint themselves with societal norms and build meaningful connections. Greg Burns, Community Engagement Coordinator at the South Bend re-entry center, emphasized the significance of these community outreach efforts: “Our goal is to get these individuals out into the community to interact with people, make connections, and reacquaint themselves with societal norms as they approach the end of their sentences.”

In addition to Unity Gardens, the barbers involved in the program also visit other local venues such as the Charles Black Center and Tolson Community Center, further integrating their skills and building positive community relations.