Albany Barber Shop Offers Free Haircuts and Essential School Supplies to Local Students!
Barber Lounge in Albany’s Loudon Plaza has made the back-to-school season a bit easier for local families by hosting a special community give-back event. This year, the barbershop offered free haircuts and school supplies to students, helping both parents with school-related costs and students with their confidence.
Kevin George, the owner of the Barber Lounge, and his team provided over 75 free haircuts to students in need. MeTime Nail & Spa joined in by painting children’s nails, a service funded by George. The event also offered other resources to families, including free meals, face painting, and donated backpacks filled with school supplies.
Skydell McCall, a longtime friend of Kevin George and co-organizer of the event, explained that they saw a significant need in the community and decided to act. “Funds are not out there, and it’s hard for families with multiple children to afford haircuts and nail services,” McCall said. “So we are doing this to help the parents out.”
TrustCo Bank, along with the Albany Police and Fire Departments, also participated in the event. Bank representatives talked with families about opening bank accounts for children. Meanwhile, the Albany Police and Fire Departments provided child ID cards and shared safety tips with both parents and kids.
Ten-year-old Chawn Santos and his cousins all got haircuts at the event. Chawn’s aunt, La’Non Kearse, expressed her appreciation for the support. “It’s such a blessing because when parents are struggling to make ends meet, free backpacks and school supplies are a huge help,” Kearse said.
Nine-year-old Cheyenne Brown, who enjoyed having her nails painted, also praised the free services and supplies. “Some people don’t have enough money to buy their stuff, so I think it’s really nice of them to give out things for free,” Brown said. The organizers plan to make the event even bigger next year, with hopes of providing more haircuts and filling more backpacks for students in need.