If you’ve ever walked out of a salon or a barber shop sporting a new hairstyle, you know what a boost it can be to your self-image.
You simply feel better when you look your best.
The Family Justice Center of Stanislaus County helped to boost the morale of many of its clients last weekend with its annual Salon Day.
The FJC’s mission is to provide assistance for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse and human trafficking. The FJC offers comprehensive services in a safe, centrally located environment by coordinating with partner agencies.
On Salon Day, the FJC helped clients feel their best with haircuts, manicures, makeovers, massages, a barbecue, groceries to take home, backpacks and toys for the kids, and access to a clothes closet where an update to the wardrobe is made possible. Clients could even have a family portrait taken.
“It’s tremendous,” said Lisa Mantarro Moore, FJC’s executive director. “If you sit and watch these individuals and these families and how humble they are to be greeted warmly and not have to look in their pocketbook to provide for these items. We had a dad and his two adorable boys come in and he asked, ‘Are you sure we don’t have to pay for anything?’
“These are people that have seen a lot of trauma. Some more than others. And it’s about making them feel whole and valued and comfortable in a safe environment. They can turn lose, get their nails done, have lunch. These things are a huge benefit for a family struggling and trying to put their life back together.”
While the clients are appreciative of the Salon Day, Mantarro Moore said the volunteers are just as thankful.
“We have volunteers thanking us for letting them volunteer,” said Mantarro Moore. “It’s a healthy experience to give back to the community, and watch people relax under your care.”
The non-profit organization, located at 1418 J St., Modesto, provides a plethora of services — legal, translation, counseling — to clients, who come recommended by law enforcement agencies. Clients with advocates, who assess the client’s needs and help formulate a safety plan.
“Family Justice Center is both a facility in our community as well as a movement,” said Mantarro Moore. “We help victims receive services in one location. Non-profits HAVEN and Without Permission also have staff here on site.”
Thanks to a state grant, FJC has secured bus advertising in Turlock to enhance its profile.
“We currently have ads on six buses and four bus shelters that have human-trafficking awareness ads in Turlock, specifically,” said Mantarro Moore, who praised Turlock Police department for being a regular presence at FJC. “Turlock Police Department, for many years, has been a tremendous partner to our facility. We have a great relationship with Turlock PD.”
In past year, the FJC received more than 6,000 calls for assistance in domestic violence-related cases. And the past fiscal year (which concluded June 30), FJC offered support for more than 700 different clients, with multiple visits from each client. The FJC’s legal unit had more than 300 unique clients. FJC helps obtain 50 to 70 restraining orders per month.
Mantarro Moore hopes to increase services, as well.
“We’d like to add alternative office hours to assist those who have unique hours,” said Mantarro Moore. “And we really want the other communities within the county to feel like they’re available to receive services, also.”
Like most non-profits, FJC welcomes community donations.
“We can always can use new toys,” said Mantarro Moore. “Gently used toys are tricky in the post-COVID environment, but we can use infant clothes, new car seats, non-perishable grocery items are always appreciated, suitcases, and art supplies.”
Donations can be made by calling the FJC office at 209-525-5130 or by visiting StanislausFamilyJustice.org.
Mantarro Moore reminds clients and perspective clients to call 911 in an emergency situation.
