Local barbershop donates time for seniors’ haircuts

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Sir Lance Barbershop volunteered their time at the Sagewood AgeCare facility, Dec. 11, to give free haircuts to local seniors as a way to give back to the community just before Christmas. 

“Last year, we did the same thing. We just went and donated our time to do something for the community and I thought … there are a lot of seniors; they need some help over the holidays and they need services done,” said Tarek Harb, owner and operator of Sir Lance Barber Shop. “There are some people in need and we would be happy to do it. I had a chat with my staff and they were all good and willing to help out and we made it happen last year. Now this year, we want to do it again and the staff is all cheery to do it.”

Harb added he aims to make the event an annual occasion going forward around Christmas in order to keep creating an opportunity to give back to the local community.

He explained he sees it as an opportunity to accommodate those who may not be able to get out for a haircut conveniently otherwise, as well as to visit folks who may be lonely. 

“Sometimes you do not realize people’s lifestyle or the things they are going through so if we can make them happy and we can give them a little gift … we thought it was a nice way to give back,” said Harb. “What better way to give back to the seniors, most of whom have supported us over the years … last year, I believe my team and I served around 56 people.”

Half the team was stationed at the lodge for the morning, with the other half back at the shop for regular operations. The idea was at the halfway mark through the day, the teams would switch places and continue the service. 

The idea was to cater to whatever each of the clients wanted and get them looking sharp for the holidays and trying their best for those who have difficulties communicating their exact wishes. 

“We might have the same or a little bit more. Last year we ran from 9:30 (a.m.) until about like 3 (p.m.) I believe we were done at the end. I was anticipating something similar,” said Harb. “We ask some people; some people go for it and some people do not, but I think this year they will be a little bit more involved. We will see, we are going with the flow.” 

Harb added he is uncertain what the event will look like going forward and it will depend what ideas get thrown around.