Black History Month Hair Care Drive

The 2026 Black History Month Hair Care Drive is complete.
Thank you to all who supported!

Celebrating the legacy of Black hair. Honoring identity. Caring for our community.

This Black History Month, DABSJ is hosting a Hair Care Drive to stock our Care Closet with products that support a wide range of hair textures, especially products designed for curly, coily, and textured hair.

Hair care is about more than hygiene. It is deeply connected to identity and culture. Throughout Black history, hair has carried powerful meaning – reflecting pride, resilience, creativity, and care across generations. This drive is one way we honor that legacy while meeting real, everyday needs for the children and families we serve.

Why this matters

The DABSJ Care Closet serves children and families across all our programs, including foster care, residential programs, counseling, and family support programs. Families often come to us during some of the hardest moments of their lives. By providing thoughtfully selected clothing, toiletries, and household essentials, we help remove one more barrier so children and families can focus on healing and growth.

For children and families of color, representation matters. That means having access to hair care products that actually work for their hair – products they recognize, trust, and feel good using. Our Care Closet is intentionally designed to feel more like shopping than receiving a donation, upholding dignity and choice at every step.

What we're collecting:

We are seeking new, unopened hair care products that support a variety of hair textures, including:

Hair essentials

  • Shampoo and conditioner formulated for textured hair
  • Leave-in conditioners and moisturizers
  • Curl creams, gels, and styling products

Tools and accessories

  • Wide-tooth combs and detangling brushes
  • Satin or silk bonnets and durags
  • Spray bottles, hair clips, elastics, and protective accessories

Recommended brands include:
SheaMoisture, Cantu, Mielle Organics, TGIN, Aunt Jackie’s, As I Am, Camille Rose, Design Essentials, and similar quality brands designed for textured hair.

(All items must be new and unopened.)

How to give

Drop off items:
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
2172 Dean Lake Ave NE, Grand Rapids

Shop our Wish List: A list of suggested products and brands is available Amazon, though we welcome purchases from any retailer you prefer! 

Prefer to give financially?
Monetary donations will be used to purchase hair care products from our wishlist to stock the closet.

Together, we can ensure every child and family feels seen and supported – this Black History Month and beyond.

Presented by

The image shows a logo with the words "All children families individuals" and a rainbow-colored arc below.

DABSJ is inclusive and welcoming – from our team members, to the children we serve, to the families we license as foster parents. You could play a part in providing homes and hope for children who need a place to be themselves.