Napa County is facing a severe homeless crisis, ranking 15th in the nation per 100,000 residents. Many of those without homes need just the basics to help them get back on their feet. The most fundamental needs are a daily shower, occasional shaves, lice control and monthly haircuts. By providing these essential services, we take the first step towards addressing the homelessness issue. We only have about 250 homeless people in Napa. We can solve this issue and end the disgrace of being rank in the top 25 in the nation every yeer.

We must begin with the basics, and providing a daily shower can make a significant difference. Free shaving tools and haircuts are vital for self-respect, which in turn affects one’s spirit, mind, and body. To this end, we plan to build or acquire a mobile shower trailer with six stations, a four-bay hair cutting trailer, or for some just offer a $10 membership to the local Planet Fitness.

1. Providing Showers – This step requires a dual approach:
   1. Mobile Showers – Many homeless individuals are reluctant to leave their belongings, which are often all they have left. A mobile shower trailer is crucial for this reason. Volunteers from NVF Buying Co-op will drive the trailer to the encampments of homeless individuals, remaining on-site for four hours, from 5 AM to 9 AM, and then again from 5 PM to 9 PM.
   2. Planet Fitness Membership – We will seek sponsorships for homeless individuals who desire a place to shower, start a fitness routine, and feel secure. For some, a simple workout can boost self-esteem. It’s well-known that mental health improves with the release of endorphins during physical exercise.
2. Shaving Equipment – We aim to purchase shaving equipment directly from manufacturers, as such items are costly. Most social programs either do not provide them or lack sufficient quantities for everyone.

2. Mobile Haircuts – The NVF Buying Co-op will recruit barbers and hairdressers as working members. In return for their six-hour commitment in the Working Members Status, the Co-op will assign these members to perform their specialized services. We plan to build or acquire a mobile hair salon/barber shop, necessitating a trailer for the initiative. NVF Buying Co-op volunteers will drive the trailer to areas where homeless encampments are located, operating from 5 PM to 9 PM. During daytime hours, the trailer will generate revenue through a chair rental program for stylists, which will help subsidize the operational costs of this program.
3. Lice Programs – We will have day in which we only treat people with lice. Provide the reoccurring services to help people suffering with a treatable condition.

Benefits: This program aims to remove Napa from the list of the top 25 cities with the most homeless people per 100,000 residents. We are laying the groundwork to make this a reality. Daily, individuals will have the opportunity to shower, shave, and receive haircuts monthly. This is just the start.