Community Hair Cutting Clinic is More Than a Haircut

For those who perhaps can’t afford a haircut or are unable to visit a salon, The Salvation Army Kemptville Church came up with a solution: a free community hair cutting clinic.

“The hair cutting clinic is a partnership between local stylists within the community to offer a service that celebrates individuality and celebrates the person in a way that many people are unable to afford,” says Pastor Erin Wong, Community Ministry Director in Kemptville. “This clinic is a way that helps people boost their confidence and their self-esteem.”

Vincent Walsh is a professional hair stylist that volunteers his time to the clinic, which is more than just about cutting hair, both for him and the client. Vincent recently styled a woman in her 60s who had never had her hair professionally cut.

“It was a powerful experience to do that for the first time. There is an enormous surge of energy that comes off of people that are receiving a gift. I didn’t realize how much power it had to change them,” Vincent explains.

Pastor Wong says the feedback on the program from participants has been incredibly positive and encouraging.

“We couldn’t make this clinic possible without the stylists that offer this service and it’s been tremendous for us to be able to see the impact that they’re giving has had on the clients,” she says.

“it’s been truly a blessing in our lives to witness and to be a part of. It provides a very low-key friendly environment to connect with people.”

Vincent encourages other hair stylists to give their time to make a difference in the lives of people by offering a simple haircut to anyone who might not be able to afford one.

“First and foremost, you are giving and that is huge. But you’re also changing, which is just as big. It’s so worthwhile. This is my 50th anniversary in the industry and sometimes I feel like I’m just getting going, especially with things like this. It’s very powerful,” he says.