Barbershop opened by Roanoke church to inspire youth and provide free haircuts

Roanoke, Virginia – One video clip at a time, a local church in Roanoke is working to lessen violence.

Faith & Hope Church ROA offers free haircuts downstairs in addition to a Bible study in the sanctuary every other Wednesday.

Sam Roman, the pastor and former chief of police for Roanoke, calls it a creative way to support young people in the neighborhood.

“Really reach out to young, at-risk juveniles and males who really do have a need not only for a haircut but to be mentored as well,” explained Roman.

The church is situated in Northwest Roanoke, an area six times more violent than Southwest Roanoke, which has witnessed 109 gun violence occurrences in the last three years.

For this reason, according to Barber George Harrington, he donates his time and expertise to this project.

“I want them to know they can be somebody,” Harrington said. “They don’t have to go down the wrong road; they can stay focused and keep God in their life.”

Harrington and the other barbers are significantly improving the lives of the children with their clippers.

“When he came in he had his hoodie on, but by taking off his hoodie and getting his haircut. He feels like he’s somebody, he feels special,” Harrington noted.

De’nahzoen White, 17, said that their confidence and hygiene had increased with the new appearance. White was one of nine children who received a haircut through the Youth HQ program at Goodwill.
One haircut at a time, Roman added, they are sculpting the future.

“Regardless of the impact’s size, making a difference in someone’s life is progress,” Roman stated.

For anyone under the age of eighteen who may qualify for the program, please text or give the church a call at (540)-889-0056 to make an appointment for a haircut.