Veterans can get free haircuts through a New York state program this November, including a Veterans Day offer at participating Great Clips salons statewide and additional services on Long Island and in Manhattan.
The state Department of Veterans’ Services announced the Haircuts Across The State initiative, known as H.A.T.S., in a news release Monday. Its four partners are Great Clips, the International Barber and Beauty Institute, New Horizons Hair By Bianca and the Barber & Beauty Institute of New York.
Great Clips offers Veterans Day haircuts statewide
Veterans and service members can visit participating Great Clips salons Wednesday, Nov. 11, for a free haircut or a card redeemable for a haircut on a future visit through the company’s annual “Thank a Veteran” program.
Military identification is requested. Hours generally run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., but vary by location. Veterans can find salon locations at Great Clips’ website.
Long Island institutes offer walk-in services
The International Barber and Beauty Institute in Central Islip is offering free haircuts to veterans on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout November. Remaining dates are Nov. 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Veterans can walk in at 118 E. Suffolk Ave., Central Islip, and ask for Sam. The institute can be reached at 631-273-5755 or info@ibi-bli.com.
The Barber & Beauty Institute of New York in Hempstead is providing haircuts and transitional support for veterans throughout November. Its listed hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 266 Greenwich St., Hempstead.
Walk-ins are welcome. Veterans should ask for director Christopher Felder and provide proof of veteran status. The telephone number is 516-486-5424.
Manhattan salon provides haircuts and medical wigs
New Horizons Hair By Bianca, owned by Bianca Lyder, is offering free veteran haircuts on Mondays, Nov. 9, 16 and 23, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The business also offers free medical wigs to veterans experiencing hair loss.
The salon is at Salons By JC, 124 W. 24th St., Suite 24, between Sixth and Seventh avenues in Manhattan. Appointments are requested at 917-209-5099.
State seeks more participating businesses
Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohen, a Marine veteran, said the program is intended to recognize veterans through personal care and community connections.
“Sometimes, something as simple as a haircut can lift someone’s spirits, restore confidence, and remind them that they are valued and appreciated,” DeCohen said.
“These partnerships demonstrate that supporting Veterans does not always require a large program or complicated process. Sometimes, it begins with a welcoming chair, a friendly conversation, and a genuine expression of appreciation,” said Executive Deputy Commissioner Mark Sollohub, a Navy veteran. Lessie Branch, the department’s special assistant for community engagement and also a Navy veteran, described the program as an effort to build dignity, confidence and human connection.
The department is inviting additional barbershops, salons and beauty professionals to participate in future H.A.T.S. partnerships as it builds relationships connecting veterans and their families with services.
Veterans, service members and military families seeking other benefits and support can call 888-838-7697 or visit veterans.ny.gov to arrange an in-person or virtual meeting with an accredited veterans benefits adviser.
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