I’m Erin LaFleur, and I’m starting this fundraiser for myself and my child. I’m a commissioned stylist in a loc-only salon, and when I was hired, I was brought on as a full-time stylist. In the beginning, I was working five days a week at my own station alongside the owner, and that gave me hope that I could truly support my family as a single parent. About three months after I started, the salon was downsized so only one stylist could use the space at a time, and my hours were cut drastically. What has made this even more painful is that I was told the owner wanted me to be able to pay my bills, but then my schedule was reduced from five days a week to only two. Now I only work Tuesday and Wednesday, which are the salon’s slowest days. Most clients book on Thursdays and Fridays to get ready for weekend events and gatherings, so being scheduled on the slowest days has made it even harder to earn enough and has left me feeling deeply discouraged.

I also specialize in locs, silk presses, and brow wax services. Because I’m in a loc-only salon, I’m not able to fully reach the client base that fits the full range of services I provide. I’m trying to take a step forward by renting my own salon suite, where I can work the hours my clients actually need, serve the right clients, and rebuild a stable income. The funds from this fundraiser will help me cover the $500 deposit I need to get started. Having my own space would give me a real chance to grow my business and create more stability for myself and my child.

If you’re able to help, I would be incredibly grateful for your support. Even sharing this fundraiser would mean so much to me. Thank you for believing in me and helping me move toward a more stable future for my family.