Looking to make a meaningful contribution while also getting a fresh new look? Consider donating your hair to one of these 7 reputable organizations that provide wigs and other hairpieces to those in need.
1. Children With Hair Loss (CWHL)
- Who they help: Children suffering from hair loss due to medical conditions such as cancer or alopecia.
- What they provide: Custom-made wigs fitted to each child’s unique needs.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 12 inches, clean and dry.
- Donation process: Online form or mail-in donation.
- Website: https://childrenwithhairloss.us/
2. Wigs for Kids
- Who they help: Children facing hair loss from cancer treatment.
- What they provide: Free wigs and financial assistance for travel and lodging expenses related to wig fittings.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 8 inches, clean and dry.
- Donation process: Online form or mail-in donation.
- Website: https://wigsforkids.org/
3. Pantene Beautiful Lengths
- Who they help: Women and children battling cancer.
- What they provide: Real-hair wigs manufactured by Pantene.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 8 inches, clean and dry, no split ends or chemical treatments.
- Donation process: Mail-in donation only.
- Website: https://beautifulengths.com/
4. Locks of Love
- Who they help: Children and young adults up to age 21 with long-term medical hair loss.
- What they provide: Custom-made hairpieces and financial assistance for related expenses.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 10 inches, clean and dry, natural or dyed colors accepted.
- Donation process: Online form or mail-in donation.
- Website: https://locksoflove.org/
5. Matter of Trust
- Who they help: Individuals of all ages experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions, accidents, or domestic violence.
- What they provide: Wigs, hairpieces, and other hair-related services.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 8 inches, clean and dry, any color or texture.
- Donation process: Online form or mail-in donation.
- Website: https://matteroftrust.org/
6. Human Hair Solutions
- Who they help: Individuals of all ages who have lost hair due to alopecia, cancer, or other medical conditions.
- What they provide: Custom-made wigs and hairpieces designed to match the recipient’s hair color, texture, and style.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 8 inches, clean and dry, any color or texture.
- Donation process: Mail-in donation only.
- Website: https://humanhairsolutions.com/
7. Heart to Heart Hair Donation
- Who they help: Cancer patients and other individuals in financial need who have experienced significant hair loss.
- What they provide: Real-hair wigs and financial assistance for related expenses.
- Hair requirements: Minimum length of 10 inches, clean and dry, all hair types accepted.
- Donation process: Online form or mail-in donation.
- Website: https://hearttohearthairdonation.com/
Consider the following factors when selecting an organization to donate your hair to:
- Mission and values: What population do they support? Do their values align with yours?
- Hair requirements: Are the hair requirements a good fit for your hair length, texture, and style?
- Donation process: Is the donation process easy and convenient for you?
- Impact: How many people have they helped? What is their impact on the community?
- Choose an organization: Select an organization from the list above or conduct your own research.
- Prepare your hair: Wash and dry your hair. If possible, avoid using any hair styling products.
- Cut your hair: Have a professional or friend cut your hair to the minimum required length.
- Package your hair: Place your hair in a clean, sealed bag or envelope.
- Send your donation: Mail or drop off your donation to the organization’s designated address.
- Can I donate dyed hair? Yes, most organizations accept dyed hair, as long as it is in good condition.
- How often can I donate? Many organizations accept donations every 6-8 months.
- What happens to my hair after I donate it? Your hair will be processed and used to create wigs or hairpieces for individuals in need.
- Is there any cost to donate hair? No, donating hair is free of charge.
- How long does it take to make a wig? The time it takes to make a wig can vary depending on the organization and the complexity of the wig. However, it typically takes several months.
Donating your hair is a selfless act that can make a profound difference in the lives of others. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily contribute to a worthy cause and help those in need.