WINNIPEG — Getting a haircut is an act many people take for granted; a monthly ritual to look your best or try out a latest style. For the city’s homeless and less fortunate, a haircut becomes a luxury they may not be able to afford.
For Brenda Lee Reimer and nine hair stylists from across southern Manitoba, providing haircuts is their way to give back to the community.
They’ve teamed up with Lighthouse Mission in Winnipeg to offer free haircuts to the homeless and low-income residents on Sunday. No questions asked – anyone who stops in, will be treated to a haircut.
“It gives you a sense of confidence, a sense of worth,” said Norma Wallace, one of the hairstylists volunteering.
Wallace added, “I’ve always known that haircutting is more than just a haircut. It’s about people, it’s about relationships.”
Reimer said she envisioned the idea after a backpack fundraiser for Lighthouse Mission several months ago. She found a sink in the back of the Mission’s building and decided there was an opportunity to give back to the community. She said a simple gesture of a haircut could mean bigger things down the line.
“They’re going to look in the mirror somewhere, catch a reflection of themselves and go ‘wow’. And it’s going to fill them with new hope,” Reimer said.
One of the clients, David Lafantasie recently landed a new job as a welder, called his new look “the best haircut I’ve ever gotten” and said a fresh look will be a point of pride among many clients.
“This is great, you do this for your own self worth. It makes you proud of yourself and you look better.
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