Atwood Barbershop on Madison’s East Side will be on a mission this weekend to get area students looking good and ready for their first day of school.
The barbershop will host its annual back-to-school party on Sunday, Aug. 30, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., providing free haircuts and backpacks full of supplies as the new school year kicks off for many young people in the area this week.
Atwood Barbershop hosted its first back-to-school event in 2012, and owner Terry Moss knew exactly what he hoped to accomplish.
“I just started this event because it was something to help more kids with their confidence going back to their first day of school,” he says. “I believe we had 30 kids that first year, and I did it solo — by myself.”
The event has grown steadily over the years. “Last year we did about 100 haircuts. We gave out about 120 backpacks. So this year, we’re looking to do even more,” Moss says. “We’re doing it from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, the day before school.”
Donations from community members and local businesses will help make the day even better for local kids.
“A couple of my buddies who own businesses have reached out. Ian’s Pizza will be providing pizza that day, and we’re also going to have Glass Nickel Pizza,” Moss says. “We have an ice cream shop coming in, and they’re going to give kids coupons for free ice cream once they get their haircuts.”
Moss and the barbers at Atwood Barbershop will also donate their time and services that day. There is no need to call ahead or register online; haircuts will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
“It’s a great opportunity for kids to get to know other kids before they go back to school. That’s a big connection for the kids. It makes them more comfortable during those first few days of school. It’s also a chance for parents and families to meet other parents and families,” Moss says.
Atwood Barbershop prides itself on being more than just a place to get a haircut. The shop has built its reputation as a community gathering place where customers of all ages can connect, build relationships and support one another. Through events like its annual back-to-school giveaway, the barbershop continues its commitment to giving back to the neighborhood and helping local families.
“I love to see the kids happy and excited and looking good for their first day of school,” Moss says. “I enjoy seeing kids outside of the barbershop at community events and out and about and I love that they recognize me as ‘Terry the barber.’’
“Being in the Atwood neighborhood is nice. We get a lot of community support from everyone, even people who don’t come into the barbershop,” he continues. “They really come in, support us and ask how they can help or donate. Some donate their time, while others make monetary contributions. My goal is to keep making this event get bigger and bigger every year.”
Atwood Barbershop is located at 2134 Atwood Ave.
