Eastern Suffolk BOCES and Eastern Long Island Academy of Applied Technology students cut hair for a cause last month during their “Afternoon of Beauty,” where they offered special salon services for the price of a $5 donation and one non-perishable food item, with proceeds benefitting local charities.
Among the beneficiaries for the event was the New Beginnings Brendan House, Riverhead’s new home for survivors of traumatic brain injury. The house is nearly complete but still has one major hurdle to overcome: a $20,000 water hook-up fee.
The community has banded together to help fundraise for the New Beginnings project, from themed galas to holiday pub crawls and, now, a day at the salon.
More than 300 members of the community came for manicures, paraffin wax hand treatments, haircuts, blow-outs and styling.
“It’s a win-win situation for the students and the community. The students have the opportunity to display their talents, practice their skills and customer relations, and it is good will to the community,” Cosmetology teacher Carolyn McKillop said.
The event raised more than $1,500 for its three beneficiaries and students collected around 450 lbs. of food. Other recipients from the fundraiser were St. John’s Nepomucene in Oakdale and the Long Island Council of Churches.
“The students were very nice. They showed off the skills they are learning. I enjoyed the experience, especially knowing that my donation was going to a good cause,” said Riverhead resident Constance Borny.
New Beginnings is still seeking donations to pay for the water hook-up cost. Visit their GoFundMe for more information on how to get involved.
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