Health Screenings
Free blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, and general health assessments in a comfortable, judgment-free environment.
Community-Based Harm Reduction
Harm Reduction Through Trusted Spaces
Transforming Madison's barbershops into powerful hubs for harm reduction, health education, and early intervention. Meeting our community where they already gather.
Certified Recovery Coaches
Staff with lived experience
Our Mission
“Our goal is to keep our community safe, informed, and empowered. We bring real harm-reduction support directly to the community, right where people gather and feel connected.”
Why the Barbershop?
A Cultural Cornerstone for Health
The barbershop has always been more than a place for a haircut. It's a gathering space and a trusted environment where Black men and families feel seen, heard, and respected. This makes it an ideal place to meet people where they are.
Trusted Environment
The barbershop is a cultural cornerstone where Black men feel seen, heard, and respected.
Judgment-Free Zone
Share accurate health information and build trust around sensitive topics without stigma.
Already Gathering
Meet people where they already are, reducing barriers to accessing lifesaving care.
Direct Clinic Referrals
Barbers provide direct referrals, making it easier to get follow-up care at our free clinic.
Our Services
Comprehensive Harm Reduction Services
All services are free, confidential, and provided by trained staff with lived experience in recovery.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Regular blood pressure checks and monitoring to help prevent heart disease and stroke in our community.
Diabetes Management Support
Education, screening, and ongoing support for diabetes prevention and management.
Syringe Services
Safe syringe exchange and disposal services to reduce disease transmission and connect people to care.
Vaccinations
Free vaccinations including flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines to keep our community protected.
Mental Health Resources
Counseling referrals, support groups, and mental wellness resources with trained staff who understand.
Substance Use Support Services
Our staff includes Certified Recovery Coaches and Drug & Alcohol Counselors. Whether you're seeking recovery or harm reduction strategies, we provide judgment-free support and resources.
Get Confidential SupportOur Team
Trained Professionals with Lived Experience
Most of our staff—and many of our barbershop owners—bring both professional training and personal experience to their work. This combination helps us provide authentic, effective support.
- Certified Recovery Coaches
- Drug & Alcohol Counselors
- Lived experience in recovery
- Community health training
Our Impact
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Narcan Kits Distributed
Overdose reversal medication provided to the community
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Barbershop Partners
Local shops hosting harm reduction services
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Free Services
All harm reduction services at no cost
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Weekly Outreach Events
Providing services every week of the year
Mobile Outreach
Meeting the Needs of the Unhoused
Every week, we provide free haircuts and transportation to community members experiencing homelessness. Our mobile outreach brings health services, dignity, and connection to those who need it most.
- Free weekly haircuts for unhoused community members
- Transportation to appointments and services
- Connection to housing and social services
Free Clinic AccessLearn About the Clinic
Seamless Connection to Care
Our barbershop partners provide direct referrals to the Perry Family Free Clinic, making it easier for community members to get follow-up care without barriers.
Perry Family Free Clinic
598 Grand Canyon Dr., Madison, WI 53719
Tuesday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is harm reduction?
Harm reduction is a public health approach that focuses on reducing the negative consequences of risky behaviors without requiring abstinence. It meets people where they are and provides practical support, education, and resources to keep them safer.
Are your services really free?
Yes, all of our harm reduction services are completely free. This includes health screenings, Narcan distribution, syringe services, and referrals to our free clinic. We never ask for insurance or payment.
Do I need an appointment?
No appointment is needed for our barbershop-based services. Just stop by during our screening hours. For clinic services, we recommend calling ahead but walk-ins are welcome.
Is my information kept confidential?
Absolutely. We maintain strict confidentiality for all services. Your personal information is never shared without your explicit consent.
What if I need help with substance use?
Our staff includes Certified Recovery Coaches and Drug & Alcohol Counselors who can provide support, resources, and referrals. We offer judgment-free assistance whether you're seeking recovery or harm reduction strategies.
Do you provide services for people experiencing homelessness?
Yes, we specifically serve the unhoused community by providing free haircuts, transportation, health screenings, and connections to additional resources every week.
Get the Support You Need Today
Whether you need a health screening, harm reduction resources, or just someone to talk to, we're here for you. All services are free and confidential.