With the temperatures going up, many people are thinking it might be time for a haircut. If this is you, there are a few things you might want to consider before tossing out those extra inches.
Organizations like Wigs For Kids and Locks of Love are organized non-profits that are dedicated to providing comfortable and realistic wigs for children and young adults undergoing chemotherapy, or any other condition or treatment that results in rapid hair loss- and they are always looking for donations.
When people lose their hair, especially young children, they can feel disconnected from their community and, sometimes, even their culture. Hair is for many an outlet for self-expression and a connection to their heritage, and when that connection is severed, it can lead to severe feelings of loneliness and loss of self. It’s incredible how much we owe to our hair, without even realizing.
If you are considering giving your hair a chance to help someone elsewhere, there are first some requirements that each donation of hair must meet:
First is length. Each organization has different guidelines, but many will ask for a minimum donation of seven to 10 inches per ponytail. The hair must also be tied up in some way, and stored in an airtight container.
Second, you should always consider the past of your hair treatment, whether it be a perm or highlights. Always check the donation requirements on the website of the charity of your choice, as many have different guidelines regarding hair treatment!
Lastly, make sure you check the compatibility of your hair type. Some organizations will not accept donations of dreadlocks or otherwise thick hair or tight curls, as the standard procedure is to comb through and inspect each strand of hair individually, and hair types beyond 4a are especially difficult to work with.
There are, however, quite a few charities dedicated entirely to using coiled and dreaded hair. Some of these are Braids By Bee Inc. and DREADLOCKS 2 LOVE.
There are so many ways to help others- some you may not have even thought of, such as the hair on your head! Even if you are unable to donate hair, there is always the option of donating money. Monetary donations often go towards medical research of alopecia and other conditions that lead to hair loss, as well as funding the labor that goes into making high-quality wigs for children who need them.
Again, do your research before sending your hair off in the mail. Find the organization that’s best for you! The hair donation community is devoted not only to giving hair to people who need it, but ensuring comfort to donors. Most organizations will recommend or even encourage donors to have their hair cut by your regular salon, or someone close to you, so it truly is no extra effort on your part- not to mention there is no shipping fee! Anonymity is guaranteed for those who don’t label a return address, but those who do let themselves be known will often receive a personalized thank you letter or gift box within 60 days of shipment.
