Winthrop Town Center in Riverview hosted the "Haircuts and Handlebars" event on Monday, organized by Hillsborough County’s Office of Community Impact in partnership with Foil and Hue Salon. Nearly 30 children were preselected based on academic performance and scholastic criteria to receive free haircuts, school clothing, and personal hygiene products, as reported by Hillsborough County.
The event focused on providing resources and support to students, including school supplies, haircuts, and bicycles awarded through a raffle, which may assist with school transportation. Foil and Hue Salon co-owner Chelsea Rivas, who noted she did not receive a professional haircut until she could afford one herself, told Hillsborough County, “We hope that the students see that people do care, we want them to do well and be well.”
Sabrina Cuervo, a stylist at the salon, highlighted the event's purpose in helping to build students’ self-esteem ahead of the new school year. In a statement obtained by Hillsborough County, Cuervo said, "Every kid feels the nerves going back to school. Like maybe their friends - they want to impress, or maybe a little crush that they have. So, I think it's important to feel confident when going back to school."
Dawn Schulman, executive director of Oasis Opportunities, which provided clothing and essential items, described the initiative as one that supports students by addressing basic needs. In an interview with Hillsborough County, Schulman noted that when students are equipped with necessary items, it can help minimize visible disparities and support academic focus. She stated, when kids have what they need to feel confident, it's a "great start to a great school year."
