Paul Samsin, better known as “Bouncebacc Sammy,” earned his nickname after surviving over a decade of homelessness. “They be like, ‘Dang, you bounced back,’” he said. “I did it so many times, I just took on the name Bouncebacc Sammy.”
Born in Modesto, Samsin experienced homelessness across California—from the Bay Area to Los Angeles’ skid row and throughout the Central Valley. His journey toward stability began with something simple but powerful: a haircut.
“People took me to their homes and gave me haircuts. Barbershops offered charity cuts,” Samsin recalled. “I just know how good that felt. People didn’t even know I was homeless when I had a fresh haircut.”
That feeling of confidence and dignity sparked his transformation. Now, he pays it forward through the Bouncebacc Foundation, which provides free haircuts to unhoused men, women, and children across California.
Sammy travels to neighborhoods where he once struggled, offering haircuts and emotional support. He’s often met with cheers and hugs. “It makes them feel good,” he said. “When you feel good, you want to network. You want to go out. You want to be seen a little.”
Despite challenges, including being asked to leave public spaces, Sammy and his business partner Ezekiel Raygoza keep going—even setting up haircuts at bus stops when needed.
His mission remains clear: restoring dignity and changing perceptions of the homeless. “These are whole individuals with life stories,” he said. “They’re not just homeless people. They still have dreams and aspirations.”
Helping others also supports Sammy’s own healing. “When I’m not doing this, I start to get a little depressed,” he admitted. “This helps with my mental health.”
Looking ahead, Sammy hopes to grow his foundation into a full nonprofit and launch a mobile service. From the streets to standing tall, he believes all it takes is a fresh haircut and a second chance to bounce back. He plans to bring his charity work soon to Stockton.
