LAKELAND, Fla. — In Lakeland, a mobile barbershop is making a significant impact by offering free haircuts to individuals experiencing homelessness, aiming to restore a sense of dignity and hope.
Matthew Kallhoff, who recently transitioned from foster care to homelessness, shared his struggles. “It’s been horrible. The heat and the weather. Then it’s cold, it’s cold. When it’s hot, it’s hell,” Kallhoff lamented about his harsh living conditions.
Enter Travis Doodles, founder of the nonprofit Worth and Purpose. Doodles’ organization leverages community donations to support those in need. His latest initiative involves a mobile barbershop, a recent donation to his ministry.
“We’re just out here trying to make the world a better place and share the love of God. We’re trying to change one life at a time,” Doodles explained.
With over two decades of experience as a barber, Doodles now uses the mobile barbershop to offer free haircuts to the homeless and other individuals in need. According to Doodles, a haircut can provide more than just a new look. “A haircut is a fresh start. It brings hope and lets people feel fresh. It brings their confidence back,” he said.
The barbershop trailer operates near downtown Lakeland at Gospel Village, a community serving the chronically homeless. But the support extends beyond haircuts. Doodles also provides clothing, transportation to job interviews, and personal support, including helping Kallhoff establish a lawn care business.
“Doodles gave me a shirt with my logo on it, made me a logo, and business cards. He’s been very supportive and tells me not to give up,” Kallhoff said, expressing gratitude for the encouragement and practical help he’s received.
Through these efforts, Doodles is not only offering a fresh haircut but also a renewed sense of confidence and hope to those in difficult circumstances.