Today we’d like to introduce you to Marti Baker.
Hi Marti, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
It all began when I joined (the late) Maxine Raines and Lost Sheep Ministry under the bridge to serve our homeless community. As a master barber, I realized that something as simple as a good haircut could be the first step toward restoring dignity, and ultimately restoring lives.
After the haircut came another realization: they needed a shower. And after a shower, clean clothes. Then, of course, a meal.
What started with a pair of scissors has grown into something much greater, a mission that now provides essential resources and a true hand-up to help people move from the streets into stable housing.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been anything but a smooth journey. Yet with every obstacle, I stop and ask myself, “How big is your God?”
Over the past nine years, we’ve faced it all; funding challenges, seasons when donations couldn’t meet the need, times without a building to serve from, and days when there simply weren’t enough hands to help everyone who came through our doors.
One challenge, however, has remained constant: the need for a steady stream of monthly support from our community. These donations are the heartbeat of CareCuts. They provide hot meals for the homeless, help obtain birth certificates and IDs so individuals can find housing and jobs, cover essential items like hygiene products and clothing, pay for prescription medicines, and keep our building, showers, and water running so we can continue serving with dignity.
Through it all, God has been faithful. He continues to guide me and lead CareCuts exactly where we’re meant to be.
We’ve been impressed with CareCuts, Inc., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We’re blessed to have so many incredible resources in Knoxville dedicated to serving the homeless. No single organization can do it all, which is why partnership is at the center of what we do. However, the only shelters we have in Knoxville are those under the Salvation Army, KARM and Keenan Grimes Community Center. By working together with other agencies, we’re able to help each person in the best way possible with the resources we have.
What truly sets us apart is simple. Everyone who walks through our gate is treated with the same love, respect, and dignity. It doesn’t matter your age, skin color, or past. Here, everyone is welcome, and everyone has access to the same care and resources.
Whether you need to use us as your mailing address, take a shower, get a haircut, or need help obtaining an ID or out-of-state birth certificate, we’re here for you. If you need to connect with one of our many partners offering healthcare, veteran support, or rehabilitation services, we’ll make sure you get the help you need.
At CareCuts, we give everything we can to help you take that next step—off the streets and into a home.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’m a local hairdresser who had a big dream, a dream far too big to accomplish alone. CareCuts was born out of faith, love, and the incredible people God has placed in my path. It all began with my dear cousin, Ginger LaRue Marshall, who planted the seed and shared Jesus with me.
In 2016, God sent Ray Pinkstaff, Valerie Privett, Janette Burgin, Lacy Wallace Husk, and Tom Ogburn who birthed CareCuts Ministry. Over the years, so many others have stepped in to lift this mission higher: my husband Archie, Don Epperly, Tim Hill, Mike Hatcher, Mary Katherine Wormsly, my “sisters” Pat Stallings and Debbie Winstead, our amazing board and advisory council, and countless others whose hearts and hands have helped shape CareCuts into what it is today.
This has never been about me. It’s about God and the beautiful way He works through people to change lives. Every step, every challenge, every victory has been guided by His hand and carried by those who believe in the power of love, dignity, and second chances.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carecutsknox.org
- Instagram: carecutsknoxville
- Facebook: CareCuts of Knoxville
