Donating hair is a powerful act of kindness that provides hope and support to those in need. Here’s an extensive guide to help you find the best place to donate your hair, ensuring its impact is maximized.
1. Locks of Love (14,000 Wigs Distributed)
Mission: Provide custom-fit hairpieces to children suffering from long-term medical hair loss.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 10 inches in length
– Clean, dry, and not chemically treated
– No gray hair or excessive split ends
2. Children with Hair Loss (28,000 Wigs Created)
Mission: Create and distribute free wigs for children battling cancer and other medical conditions.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 12 inches in length
– Undyed, unbound, and in good condition
– Avoid using products or styling tools on donated hair
3. Pantene Beautiful Lengths (100,000 Wigs Made)
Mission: Partner with the American Cancer Society to provide free wigs to women undergoing cancer treatment.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 8 inches in length
– Any color, texture, or style
– Must be clean, dry, and free of excessive split ends
4. Wigs for Kids (10,000 Wigs for Youngsters)
Mission: Provide hairpieces to children who have lost hair due to medical conditions or alopecia.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 12 inches in length
– Undyed, unbound, and in good condition
– All hair types and textures welcome
5. Hair We Share (1,500 Wigs Distributed)
Mission: Distribute wigs to women and children across the country who have lost hair to cancer treatment or other medical conditions.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 10 inches in length
– Any color, texture, or style
– Must be clean and in good condition
6. Mother to Mother (4,000 Wigs Loaned)
Mission: Provide high-quality wigs and accessories to mothers undergoing cancer treatment.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 12 inches in length
– Any color, texture, or style
– Must be clean and free of excessive split ends
7. Hair Loss Relief Foundation (2,000 Wigs Created)
Mission: Provide free wigs and other support services to individuals experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 8 inches in length
– Undyed, unbound, and in good condition
– All hair types and textures accepted
8. Hope for Hair (1,200 Wigs Distributed)
Mission: Create and distribute custom-fit wigs to children with hair loss due to medical conditions or alopecia.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 10 inches in length
– Undyed, unbound, and in good condition
– All hair types and textures welcome
9. American Red Cross (15,000 Units of Blood)
Mission: Support various blood donation initiatives, including hair donation for patients with burn injuries.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 8 inches in length
– Undyed, unbound, and in good condition
– All hair types and textures accepted
10. St. Baldrick’s Foundation (1 Billion Dollars Raised)
Mission: Fund childhood cancer research and support families battling pediatric cancer.
Hair Requirements:
– Minimum 12 inches in length
– Undyed, unbound, and in good condition
– Monetary donations also welcome
- Ensure your hair meets the length requirements. Different organizations have varying minimum lengths, so research beforehand.
- Wash and dry your hair thoroughly. Clean, dry hair is easier to process into wigs.
- Avoid chemical treatments. Dyeing, bleaching, or chemically straightening your hair can damage it for donation purposes.
- Cut your hair in a ponytail or braid. This keeps all the strands together and prevents tangling.
- Package your hair securely. Use a sealed plastic bag or envelope to protect it during shipping.
Tricks for Growing Healthy, Donatable Hair:
- Maintain a balanced diet. Include plenty of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Get regular trims. Removing split ends promotes healthy hair growth.
- Use gentle hair care products. Avoid harsh shampoos and conditioners that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Protect your hair from heat. Limit the use of hot styling tools and wear a hat when outdoors.
- Donating hair that is too short. Check the minimum length requirements carefully.
- Using products or styling tools on donated hair. These can damage the hair and make it unusable for wig making.
- Shipping your hair without packaging it properly. Secure the hair to prevent damage during transit.
- Not following the organization’s specific guidelines. Each organization has different hair requirements and donation procedures.
- Ignoring the opportunity to make a monetary donation. Some organizations also accept funds to support their mission.
- Choose an organization. Research different organizations and select one that aligns with your values.
- Meet the requirements. Ensure your hair meets the length, condition, and other specifications of the chosen organization.
- Prepare your hair. Wash, dry, and cut your hair according to the instructions.
- Package and ship your donation. Protect your hair in a sealed container and send it via the designated method.
- Track your donation. Some organizations provide tracking information so you can follow the progress of your hair donation.
Conclusion:
Donating hair is a powerful opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those in need. By following these guidelines and choosing a reputable organization, you can ensure your hair donation has the greatest possible impact. Remember, even a small act of kindness can bring joy and hope to those who need it most.