As the holiday season approaches – a time when many people want to look and feel their best – a fresh haircut can do wonders for ones self-esteem.
But there are many in our community who are foregoing personal care to prioritize basic needs like food and housing.
Enter trades students in Niagara College’s Hairstyling programs.
In the spirit of giving, NC’s hairstylists-in-training will offer free haircuts to those in need this December, in partnership with Open Arms Mission in Welland. From December 2 to 6, NC students will serve approximately 90 clients as part of their hairstyling and barbering clinics.
Open Arms Mission is a vital community resource that provides essential support to those facing challenges of homelessness, food insecurity, and unemployment. As the holiday season approaches, and with the support of volunteers, the missions aims to restore dignity and hope.
“More people than ever are facing food insecurity in our community, with more than 1 in 10 Wellanders accessing our food bank in the past 12 months,” said Josh Walsh, Executive Director of Open Arms Mission.
“Over 2,500 people have come to us for help who have never needed to before. As the holiday season approaches, a time meant to be joyful and full of celebration, our mission is more important than ever. We are incredibly grateful for the support from Niagara College and our community, especially as we work to meet this increased need during the Christmas season. Together, we are making every effort to keep food on the shelves, inspire the community, and to bring dignity and hope to those who need it most.”
“For many of the individuals Open Arms serves, this seemingly simple service can make a major impact on their day, bringing a sense of care, renewal, and warmth during a season of giving,” explained NC professor Merinda Arcidiacono. “For our students, especially those in hairstyling, volunteering at Open Arms Mission is an opportunity to learn valuable life and career skills beyond the classroom. Offering free haircuts and other grooming services not only allows students to refine their practical skills but also gives them a unique chance to make meaningful connections with community members.”
For final-term student and Welland native Beca Coons, the initiative hits close to home.
“Initiatives like this mean a lot to me because growing up I was in a neighborhood where a lot of people struggled with paying bills and putting food on the table, so something like a haircut wasn’t always a priority,” she said. “It will be really nice to help some families with something even as small as a haircut.”
NC’s Hairstyling team have been long-time supporters of Open Arms Mission. This year, the NC Knight Walkers – a group of more than 50 employees and students – raised more than $7,500 for the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser. Funds raised support those experiencing hurt, hunger or homelessness.
“Involving students in community service with organizations like Open Arms Mission not only meets immediate needs but also lays the foundation for a compassionate and connected future in Welland,” said Arcidiacono. “Supporting this initiative is truly a gift that resonates across the entire community.”
Coons, who hopes to get a chair in a barber shop and build her own clientele, credits her instructors for their “huge support in preparing us for the future,” tailoring their teaching to students’ interests.
