There are many misconceptions surrounding those living on the Downtown East Side (DTES). 2 Paycheques Away unlocks new perceptions of spirited and resilient individuals from the DTES by sharing their stories as told during their visit to the barber. This initiative lends a head start to those taking a next step and rebuilds bridges and relationships among Vancouverites of all walks of life.
First impressions count and no one knows that better than the residents of the DTES. To help others better understand the stigma faced by our neighbours in the DTES we offer free haircuts and, if given permission, take before and after photos so everyone can see the changes not just in their hairstyle but in their expressions. The photos remind everyone how easy it is to make assumptions about others based on their appearance and their stories remind everyone of their humanity. At 2 Paycheques Away we believe that helping people feel better about themselves is the first step toward improving their world and how the world views them.
2 Paycheques Away.. unlocks new perceptions of spirited and resilient individuals from the Downtown East Side (DTES) by sharing their stories as told during their visit to the barber.
1. We provide complimentary haircuts for residents of
the DTES and low income communities.
2. We share stories of every day people to share awareness
3. We provide various items, by donation, that are
needed on the DTES.
– Lousie
Alysha Osborne
Alysha has been in the hair industry for 11 years. She started her career in salons and moved into barbering in 2011. While living in Gastown she became friends with some downtown eastsiders and began seeing the way they were being treated from others. Having experience with addiction in her family, she decided to start 2 Paycheques Away.. to change the stigma around addiction, homelessness and mental health on the DTES. “We’re all 2 paycheques away from being in a different place.”
In late summer 2024, Alysha passed the leadership of 2 Paycheques Away Charitable Society to Roman Ansari, with the confidence that he would uphold its founding vision and lead its growth and increased influence throughout the community.
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The volunteers contributed their time towards cleaning up the city. We’re trying to raise money for a new school, and we’re hoping that everyone will contribute. He did not contribute to the project.
Financial donations to our charity help us better serve the residents of the DTES by keeping our equipment and PPE up to date, enabling us to take more photos, produce more books and share more stories.
