DETROIT – In St. Baldrick's head-shaving events, shavees raise money for childhood cancer research.
On Friday, the West Oakland Wings hosts its third St. Baldrick's event. It will be held from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at 786 West Highland Road in Highland.
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Interested in donating your hair? In St. Baldrick's head-shaving events, shavees raise money for childhood cancer research by pledging to shave their heads in support of cancer patients, who often lose their hair during treatment.
While St. Baldrick's does not collect hair donations, volunteers are welcome to participate at St. Baldrick's events to raise funds for childhood cancer research while donating their hair to another organization. It's a great way to help two charities at once and you can do it all in 5 easy steps:
Step One: Sign Up!
Sign up as a shavee or volunteer on the St. Baldrick's website. If you want to get your head shaved and donate your hair at the same time, you can sign up as a shavee. However, if you'd like to only donate your hair, it's best to sign up as a volunteer.
Step Two: Choose a Charity
Decide on where you'd like to donate. There are several charities that collect hair donations to make wigs for children with different types of hair loss, but there are also groups that give to adults. Choose the organization that best resonates with your reason of wanting to give.
Step Three: Spread the Word!
Let your supporters know that you plan to donate your hair through the message section of your St. Baldrick's event web page, Facebook, or email. And ask them to make a donation for childhood cancer research to honor your sacrifice.
Step Four: Make the Cut!
At your St. Baldrick's event, have your hair secured in several ponytails or braids and ask the barber to cut each of them off above the elastic.
Step Five: Mail Your Mane
Charities have varying requirements when it comes to sending them your hair donation. Be sure to follow their directions on how to pack and mail your mane.
Where to Donate Your Hair
Check out these organizations that collect hair donations to use for wigs:
Wigs for Kids
Wigs for Kids makes wigs for children and teens under the age of 18 who have lost their hair due to medical reasons. They require at least 12 inches of hair that is not dyed, bleached, or highlighted. To donate your hair, the hair must be bound in a ponytail.
Locks of Love
Locks of Love makes wigs for kids under the age of 21 who suffer from long-term medical hair loss. They require at least 10 inches of hair that is not bleached or highlighted. The hair must be bound in a braid or ponytail.
Pantene Beautiful Lengths
Pantene Beautiful Lengths makes wigs for women who have lost their hair due to cancer. They require at least 8 inches of hair that is not bleached, permanently dyed, permed, or chemically straightened. The hair must be bound in a ponytail.
Children with Hair Loss
Children with Hair Loss makes hair available to children under 21 with medically-related hair loss. Their guidelines include at least 8 inches of hair in length, preferably not bleached or highlighted. The hair must be ponytailed or braided.
Childhood Leukemia Foundation
Childhood Leukemia Foundation offers a variety of services to children with cancer and their families, including providing custom-made 100% human hair wigs. They require at least 10 inches of hair that is chemically untreated. The hair must be bundled in a braid or ponytail.