I have been growing out my hair since homecoming last year to donate it. On April 20, 2023 I went to Great Clips to do so. I wanted to donate it because I wanted to help young kids who no longer have hair because of cancer.

The process of donating my hair took about a year and a half. There were many times when I wanted to give up and just get my hair cut, but then I thought that because it took me so long to get to this length, it would be a waste to give up before I could donate it.

I donated my hair at Great Clips after they determined I met the qualifications. In order to donate your hair, it needs to be eight to 10 inches. It also cannot be colored, bleached, permed, dreadlocked, or gray. Thankfully, I met these requirements so the months-long process of growing out my hair was worth the wait. When getting it cut, there are several steps to preserve the hair for donation. For example, they put it in a ponytail to cut it to make sure that it is the exact length they need in one swift chop.

There are so many people out there that do not have hair because of cancer or other ailments. Because of this, there are many places you can choose to donate your hair like Locks of Love, Children with Hair Loss, and Matter of Trust. I personally donated to Wigs for Kids, which partners with Great Clips to create wigs from donated hair for children with cancer, severe burns, and other illnesses that prevent them from growing their own hair. The organization was founded in 1981 and has made a great impact on young children in the community ever since.

I recommend that other people should donate their hair. There are so many places to donate and it is a great way to give back to those in need. If you can donate, you should because it is totally worthwhile. You are able to help make a difference in the kids’ lives and support organizations that work in your community.