Though homeless veterans face many challenges, help is available, according to John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
The VA has numerous programs to assist with housing, household items, and even finding a job, according to a press release.
One important need, however, is something for which VA has no program.
So, John J. Pershing VA Medical Center Peer Support Specialist Lee Willard worked with his VA colleagues - Homeless Program Coordinator Jennifer Lay and Voluntary Services Specialist Dale Day to address that need.
Willard thought a simple professional haircut might boost the self-esteem of homeless veterans, which might in turn help them face some of their other challenges with more confidence.
L&M Barber Shop’s hairstylist Carley Morris stepped up to meet the need. Explaining she is off on Tuesdays, she volunteered her time to provide the requested haircuts. After the first session recently, three veterans were proudly sporting new “’dos.”
“I’ve always enjoyed giving free cuts to veterans on Veterans Day, so when the opportunity presented itself to do it regularly, I had to jump on it,” Morris said. “Cutting hair is a skill that I’m good at and it’s the least I can offer people who have given a huge part of their lives to this country. I’m more than happy to do it and I’m grateful to meet these people and hear their stories. I would love to continue doing it as long as there are people interested.”
Willard voiced gratitude on behalf of himself and the veterans.
“I believe this is a step in the right direction; helping our veterans regain a sense of pride and dignity,” Willard said. “This could not have been achieved without the teamwork of my VA colleagues who are always finding ways to help veterans, and the generosity and kindness of Ms. Morris.”
Veteran recipients appreciated the effort. “I look sharp!” said one, proudly.