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The WooSox Foundation Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, commemorates its second anniversary helping homeless in Downtown Worcester

More than 100 hygiene kits and more than 30 haircuts helped adults prepare to return to mainstream life
April 24, 2024

WORCESTER, MA — The WooSox Foundation Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, commemorated its second anniversary yesterday by helping the homeless at the former Registry of Motor Vehicles Service Center in Downtown Worcester. The RMV converted into an emergency winter shelter last December. Over 100 adults experiencing homelessness received free

WORCESTER, MA — The WooSox Foundation Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, commemorated its second anniversary yesterday by helping the homeless at the former Registry of Motor Vehicles Service Center in Downtown Worcester. The RMV converted into an emergency winter shelter last December.

Over 100 adults experiencing homelessness received free hygiene kits, each containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, socks, underwear, a comb or hairbrush, NARCAN, and soap. The women’s kits also included feminine hygiene products.

In addition, more than 30 people received complimentary haircuts, courtesy of four barbers from Recalde’s Barber Shop, located on Chandler St. The WooSox Foundation Care-A-Van, presented by Bank of America, also provided shade, electricity, and music for the event.

Emerson White, WooSox Manager of Community Relations and the WooSox Foundation, said having the Care-A-Van in the community is a priority.

“The Care-A-Van is the centerpiece of the WooSox Foundation’s Social Justice pillar because it allows us to get out into the community and meet the people where they are,” White said. “We like to get to those who can’t necessarily come to the ballpark, and we are excited to make an impact on those right down the street from us.”

“For the third straight year, since the ribbon cutting on April 23, 2022, we have visited those in Main South and other nearby neighborhoods to try to provide goods, services, and fellowship to members of the Worcester community.

“A haircut, which can seem small for some, makes an impact on those who haven’t been able to get one in a long time,” White said. “It not only enhances their physical appearance, but it enhances their self-esteem. To see the smile on their face as they look in the mirror is special.”

The WooSox Foundation will help clean a softball field today in conjunction with AbbVie on Chandler Street. This effort is part of the foundation’s commitment to Diamond Sports. It also focuses on education and conquering cancer, as well as mental health and support of our veterans.