SAN DIEGO — A barbershop is more than just a place to get a haircut, it can be a hub for building a better community.
In this Zevely Zone, I visited San Diego City College.
Classes are challenging enough for students, but what if you could attend a school that offers free clothing, food and haircuts?
"This by far exceeds all of my expectations," said Marciano Perez.
He is the Vice President of Student Services at San Diego City College.
In April, the school opened the Fresh Cutz Barbershop which school officials say is aimed at supporting students of color.
Fresh Cutz is not just a barbershop; it is an enrollment and retention strategy designed to connect students with essential support services such as counseling and financial aid.
"I have students who come here, who are coming out of prison, students who are coming out of sleeping in their car last night," said Marciano.
Inside this shop, students are surrounded by success with a mural.
"We got the great Tony Gwynn, we got Chunky Sanchez, who is from Chicano Park someone our students can resonate with. We have Nipsey Hussle, Kobe Bryant of course," said Marciano who is among the first generation in his family to go to college.
"I didn't know what college was. My parents always told me I was going to college, but I didn't know what that meant, they didn't know what that meant other than it was a way to do something better," said Marciano.
Something better is what 30-year-old Xavier Vasquez is looking for.
"I went through a lot of struggles as I grew up," said Xavier who is a single father, with two boys.
While he enjoys a free haircut, the student also receives counseling and career advice.
"We are here trying to make the best of it, we are here trying to break cycles and I am just trying to change course and change where everything is going and where my kids are going," said Xavier.
"This is our basic needs hub," said Marciano.
San Diego City College also offers free food and clothing to Xavier's family and all students. The school figures if students have their basic needs met, success will follow.
"This is our Knights Table. This is a food pantry for our students to come and if our students are hungry and if they want to grab a snack before classes start or want to grab a meal before they go home for the evening. We have rice and beans and pasta," said Marciano.
Young parents can also receive free diapers and toiletries.
"We know how expensive diapers are these days," said Marciano.
The school is already making an impact on Xavier's sons.
"Before they used to say they wanted to be YouTubers and influencers, now they come here and they say, 'Oh Dad I am going to go to city college I want to come to your school, your school is cool,'" said Xavier.
When you look like a million bucks, you may just go out and make that kind of money too.
The college has partnered with local, professional barbers dedicated to providing high-quality service to students. The new barbershop, located on the San Diego City College campus, features three barber stations, a comfortable sitting area, arcade games, TV, and music. Fresh Cutz is more than just a place for a haircut; it is a hub for community building and student support.
Current students are eligible for complimentary haircuts, typically valued at $50 or more. To qualify, students must have an educational plan, have submitted a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, and participate in group counseling sessions focusing on mental health. Additionally, students preparing for job interviews will receive a haircut to enhance their employability. For more information, click here.