Starting on Valentines Day, some deserving children will be getting a boost to their self esteem thanks to the annual Mecosta County Hair Harvest. The event collects hair to be made into wigs for children who have lost their hair.

“It goes to these kids that don't have hair because of chemo or because of alopecia or some other disease,” says organizer Ron Kanitz.

The hair, that should be eight to ten inches in length, goes to two non-profit organizations – Wigs for Kids and Children With Hair Loss. Both organizations provided hairpieces for children who need them at no charge.

The Harvest is sponsored by the Ferris State University Circle K, a Kiwanis organization. Participation by local hair salons is strong and Kanitz notes that donating hair not only helps the children, but can be a good deal for the donor too.

“We have 25 salons in the county that are presently participating. Some will do free cuts and styles, some will give free products.”

Kanitz urges anyone wishing to donate their hair to contact their favorite hair salon to see if they are participating and, if not, ask the salon call him at 231-250-9892 and he will get them signed up. The drive runs until the end of February.