Odessa Barber Gives Free Haircuts for the Homeless

A trip to the grocery store was the inspiration for an Odessa barber to provide the free haircuts to the homeless.

According to NewsWest 9, Emilio Mendez was going to shop at the grocery store when the idea hit him.

“I seen this guy outside and he had like this crazy long beard, and hair that was past his eyes and I could tell he was really hot, you know," said Mendez.

So for the past 8 years Mendez has been giving clean shaves and fades to those less fortunate.

“As I was shopping and stuff I was thinking he really needs a hair-cut," explained Mendez.

Between his normal appointments, Emilio will pass out flyers to let everyone who might be in need know they can come to him for a shave and haircut.

He has about 10 barbers that have signed up to help along with the community who has been donating clothing and food, and it all started with a simple trip to the grocery store.