Barbershop hosts free haircuts and styles event

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) - It’s almost time for kids to head back to classes at Roanoke City Public Schools.

First Impressions Family Foundation hosted its 20th annual Back to School Haircuts and Styles Sunday.

“It’s my passion, this what I love doing,” says barber George Harrington, Jr.

Harrington opened First Impressions in 1998. He says starting this event in 2003 was the best decision ever.

“When they go to school looking fresh, they feel more confident about themselves. They won’t feel like they are getting picked on or anything. With a fresh haircut and some fresh outfit, shoes, they feel like they somebody.” says Harrington.

Harrington says he knows the community needs opportunities like this.

“The first kid, he had an afro, he ain’t been to the barber shop in a minute, so I know by him being here at 6:30. I know he really needed a hair cut, but when he left, he was smiling, he was happy.” says barber James Turner.

Turner has been cutting hair at First Impressions for 7 years.

“And other people are starting to catch on too. To see how important it is for the community to do what we’re doing,” explained Turner.

He says he wants to influence the kids to see the camaraderie the neighborhood has.

“It’s a misconception about what goes on in our community. But this is stuff that goes on in our community,” added Turner.

Harrington says they will continue to give to their community because that’s what community is all about.

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