In May 2025, the WFHC hosted a special self-care event for our women, celebrating beauty, empowerment, and community. Women visiting the clinic were invited to enjoy complimentary hair styling, nail painting, and makeup services—all provided by our incredible volunteers. Every aspect of the day, from the beauty products to the creative care, was donated and delivered by a team of passionate individuals who generously shared their time and talents. The impact was deeply felt. Many women left the clinic glowing with confidence, their smiles captured in joyful selfies. Some shared that it was the first time in years that they had felt truly seen and able to embrace their femininity. It was a powerful reminder of how healing can take many forms, and how dignity and self-expression are vital parts of holistic care.
This event was planned and hosted by our wonderful WFHC coordinators of 2024-2025, Lauren Francis and Sehrish Khan, as their last clinic of the year. Self-care day used to be a tradition at the WFHC before COVID-19, but the restrictions of the pandemic prevented it from continuing. Ever since then, the traditions of self-care day were lost.
“Sehrish and I really wanted to bring back the tradition because we felt it represented something deeply personal for the women we serve,” Lauren shares, “To me, it was about giving the women a day to feel pampered. It gave them a reminder that they deserve to feel beautiful and cared for, no matter their past or circumstances.”
The coordinators described the clinic atmosphere that day as especially joyful and supportive. While the WFHC always strives to create a safe and welcoming space for women to find community, the self-care event elevated this sense of connection even further. Throughout the day, patients complimented each other’s new hair and makeup, and many helped one another choose pieces of jewelry they thought would suit each other best.
“One woman cried while getting her hair done and said she hadn’t felt this pretty in years,” Lauren states. “I told her she was always beautiful and gave her a hug, but also affirmed that there’s something special about expressing beauty through makeup and a new hairstyle. We started bonding over girly things, like how I do my eyeliner. The whole day just allowed for that kind of lighthearted, feminine connection—which every girly girl needs.”
WFHC is a medical clinic tailored towards marginalized women to provide them with free medical care along with free resources such as food, hygiene products, and new clothes. However, this day especially emphasized the importance of holistic care in any individual’s well-being. By reviving Self Care Day, Lauren and Sehrish have left a legacy that speaks to the heart of WFHC’s mission: to serve women not only as patients, but as whole people deserving of care, beauty, and belonging.
We look forward to continuing this renewed tradition in the years ahead, with deep gratitude to everyone who made it possible.
By Lulu Wang — DWW Communications & Media Volunteer
