HAMPTON, Tenn. (WJHL) — As the school year approaches, many parents find themselves overwhelmed by the financial burden of back-to-school preparations. This week’s Community Hero, Bea Snyder, steps in to help alleviate some of that pressure by providing free haircuts to students, ensuring they head back to class with confidence and a fresh look.
With a passion for hairstyling that spans four decades, Snyder has spent the last twenty years offering complimentary haircuts during back-to-school events. Her dedication is evident as she actively seeks out opportunities to donate her time and skills through social media announcements.
“I love cutting hair, and I’ve been doing it for a long time,” Snyder shared. “Whenever I see these events happening, I jump in to help because I know how much it means to families. A fresh haircut can boost a child’s confidence, and with how expensive haircuts can be, especially for families with multiple children or those in challenging situations, it’s a small way I can make a big difference.”
Snyder’s commitment to giving back is deeply personal. She has faced her own challenges, including a serious health scare that drastically changed her life.
“One morning, I woke up unable to walk. It took six to seven months of testing to find out that all the discs in my neck had blown. I needed surgery and had to give up my salon,” she recounted. “But through that, I found a new purpose. Sometimes, I believe God does things to slow you down and show you a new path.”
Now, Snyder dedicates her time to offering thirty to forty haircuts per event, finding joy in each interaction.
“It’s not just about the haircuts. It’s about showing people they are cared for and loved,” she explained. “I call them ‘give back to Jesus haircuts’ because it’s a blessing for me to do this. It’s my calling, and I want to make a difference.”
As she continues to serve her community, Snyder has no plans of stopping. Her selfless acts of kindness have left a lasting impact on countless families, and she remains committed to her mission of spreading love and support through her craft.