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RIVERSIDE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES | 59

Healthy Crownz Expands Community Supports for Textured Hair H ealthy Crownz is part of Children’s Services Racial Disparity and Disproportionality Collaborative. The initiative is designed to provide educational awareness and hair care resources for children, staff and caregivers. In Riverside County, we believe every child deserves to feel confident and empowered, says Renita Lewis, a deputy director and executive sponsor of the Racial Disparity and Disproportionality Collaborative in Children’s Services Division. Healthy Crownz is tailored to address the unique hair care needs of Black foster children and youth in out of-home care, in addition to building self-esteem, skill development, and a sense of identity. Healthy Crownz has collaborated with business partners in the field of Black Hair Care to facilitate Hair Care Resource Fairs throughout Riverside County. These events have provided a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering connections, and promoting healthy hair care practices. Healthy Crownz also collaborated with local salons, non profit agencies, hair care specialists and local businesses to facilitate Hair Care Events for Black foster youth. Almost 100 youth participated in two hair care events where they received personalized services and instruction about hair care, nail care and makeup services in a fun and vibrant atmosphere. “Hair in Black communities is a significant source of pride and beauty,” Lewis says. “Knowing how to manage Black hair and ensuring youth have the resources they need to care for their hair does build their confidence while also enhancing their sense of belonging in a multicultural environment.” Children’s Services has also launched a directory of local stylists who specialize in Black hair to support the needs of children and families throughout the year.