Claire Dawson
Donating hair is a meaningful way to support children and adults with hair loss due to cancer treatment or other medical conditions. Several organizations collect donated hair to create wigs, helping individuals restore their confidence and self-esteem. These organizations have different guidelines for hair donations, including minimum length requirements, typically ranging from 6 to 12 inches, and preferences for untreated hair. Some groups provide wigs specifically for children, such as Children With Hair Loss and Wigs for Kids, while others serve a wider range of individuals, like Hair We Share. By researching the criteria and selecting a reputable organization, you can ensure your hair donation makes a positive impact on those facing medical hair loss.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Minimum hair length | 6-14 inches |
| Hair type | Natural, non-bleached, grey hair, permed, straightened, dyed (but not highlighted) |
| Organizations | Children With Hair Loss, Locks of Love, Wigs for Kids, HairWeShare, BeYOUtiful Foundation, St. Baldrick's, Matter of Trust |
| Mailing instructions | Check with the specific organization |
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What You'll Learn
Hair donation requirements
Organisations have varying requirements for hair donations, so it is important to check with the specific organisation you plan to donate to. Here are some general hair donation requirements:
Minimum Length
Many organisations require a minimum hair length of 8 inches, while others require 10 inches or more. Some organisations may accept hair as short as 6 inches. It is important to check with your chosen organisation to ensure your donation meets their length requirements.
Hair Condition
Most organisations prefer hair that is not chemically treated, bleached, or highlighted. Some organisations may accept coloured or permed hair, as long as it is in good condition and not dry or brittle. Grey hair is also accepted by many organisations.
Hair Preparation
When preparing your hair for donation, wash and completely dry your hair before putting it into a ponytail or braid. Some organisations may have specific requirements for how the hair should be cut and packaged, so be sure to follow their directions.
Donation Process
The donation process may vary depending on the organisation. Some organisations may require you to fill out an online donation form or provide documentation. You may also have the option to drop off your donation in person or mail it to the organisation.
Other Requirements
Some organisations may have additional requirements or restrictions. For example, some organisations may require a minimum donation amount or only accept donations from certain hair types or colours. It is important to review the specific requirements of your chosen organisation to ensure your donation meets their standards.
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Where to donate hair
There are several organizations that accept hair donations to make wigs for cancer patients. Here are some options for where to donate hair:
Locks of Love
Locks of Love is a non-religious, non-political, not-for-profit entity that provides custom hairpieces for children. They accept hair donations that are a minimum of 10 inches long, measured tip-to-tip. Colored or permed hair is acceptable, and hair cut years ago can be used if stored in a ponytail or braid. They also accept financial contributions and hold fundraising events across the United States. Locks of Love's address is: 234 Southern Blvd. West Palm Beach, FL 33405-2701.
Wigs for Kids
Wigs for Kids is a nonprofit organization that helps children experiencing hair loss from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, alopecia, trichotillomania, burns, and other medical causes. They accept hair donations and also encourage volunteers to help with various tasks, such as harvesting ponytails and assisting at events. While they do not provide an address, they have a map on their website to help donors find a participating salon.
Hair We Share
Hair We Share is a Long Island-based, family-owned nonprofit organization that provides custom-made human hair wigs free of charge to men, women, and children across the United States. They accept hair donations of at least 12 inches in length and also accept financial contributions. Their Ponytail Tracking Program allows donors to track their hair's journey into a wig for a $150 donation.
Children With Hair Loss
Children With Hair Loss is a non-profit organization that provides free wigs to children and young adults under 21 facing medical hair loss. They accept hair donations and have received support from cities like Orlando, San Diego, Dallas, Detroit, Chicago, and New York. Donations can be dropped off in person during gift shop hours.
Little Princess Trust
The Little Princess Trust, based in England, provides wigs for children and young people and accepts hair donations.
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How to prepare hair for donation
When preparing to donate your hair, it's important to keep in mind that different organizations have different requirements. It's always a good idea to check with your chosen organization for their detailed requirements. Here are some general guidelines on how to prepare your hair for donation:
Length
Most organizations require a minimum length of 8 inches for hair donations. However, some organizations may require 10, 12, or even 14 inches. Be sure to check with your chosen organization to ensure your hair meets their length requirements.
Hair Type
Some organizations accept colored, permed, or chemically treated hair as long as it is in good condition and not dry or brittle, or bleached. Others may prefer non-chemically treated hair. Gray hair is also accepted by some organizations.
Preparation
Before cutting your hair, make sure it is clean and completely dry. Then, gather your hair into one or more ponytails or braids. The number of ponytails or braids will depend on the length and thickness of your hair. Each ponytail or braid should be secured with a hair tie or rubber band.
Cutting
When cutting your hair, be sure to cut it above the elastic or hair tie. This ensures that the hair remains secured and can be easily handled during the donation process.
Storage and Shipping
After cutting your hair, place it in a Ziploc or resealable bag to keep it clean and secure. Then, place the bag inside a manila or padded envelope for shipping. Be sure to include any required documentation or forms with your donation. Check with your chosen organization for specific instructions on packing and shipping your donation.
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Other ways to help
If you are unable to donate hair, there are several other ways to help cancer patients. Here are some suggestions:
Fundraising
Online fundraising is a powerful way to help cancer patients financially. Platforms like AngeLink make it easy for anyone to start a fundraiser and help those in need. You can also check out their medical fundraising ideas for inspiration.
Wig donation
You can donate wigs to organisations like EBeauty, which supports women undergoing cancer treatment. They collect donated wigs, refurbish them, and send them to patients. Patients can choose their preferred style and colour via an interactive online platform.
Support organisations
You can support organisations that help improve the lives of people with cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. For example, the American Cancer Society offers free wigs to financially eligible patients suffering from hair loss due to cancer treatment. Each local chapter has its own process for handling its free wig program, so patients can contact their local chapters to find out more.
Volunteering
Volunteering your time and talents can also make a significant impact. Organisations like Wigs For Kids rely on volunteers to help create hair replacement systems for children experiencing medical hair loss. You can check their website to see where your skills can be of assistance.
Spreading awareness
Sharing your hair donation journey or spreading awareness about cancer and its effects can also make a difference. You can sign up for newsletters or share your hair donation stories on social media to stay connected with organisations and other donors.
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Benefits of hair donation
Donating hair is a meaningful way to support children and adults in need. Here are some benefits of donating hair to cancer hospitals or organisations:
Support cancer patients' emotional well-being
Hair donation can support cancer patients emotionally as they deal with hair loss, a common side effect of chemotherapy or radiation treatment. For many patients, wearing a wig can provide a sense of control over their hair during treatment and make them feel like themselves again.
Provide free wigs to those in need
Organisations like Children With Hair Loss, Locks of Love, Wigs for Kids, and Hair We Share provide free wigs to children and young adults facing medical hair loss. These wigs are customised and can boost the recipients' self-esteem and well-being.
Help a wide range of people
Hair donation organisations often cater to a diverse group of people, including those with cancer, alopecia, trichotillomania, or burn injuries. By donating hair, you can help individuals from various backgrounds and with different medical conditions.
Easy and accessible process
Many organisations have detailed guidelines on their websites, making it easy for donors to understand the requirements and process. Some even offer discounts or free haircuts for those donating their hair. Additionally, donors can choose from a variety of registered non-profit organisations to support, ensuring their hair goes to a reputable cause.
Encourage community involvement
Hair donation organisations often rely on community support and participation. By donating hair, individuals can get involved in a meaningful cause and encourage others to join as well. This can include hosting fundraisers, volunteering at hospitals, or raising awareness about cancer research and support initiatives.
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Frequently asked questions
You can donate hair to a cancer hospital by first deciding where you would like to donate. Then, check the specific requirements of the hospital or organization you've chosen, as they vary. For example, some places require a minimum length of 8 inches, while others require 10 or 12 inches. Some organizations also have restrictions on accepting hair that has been dyed or permed. Finally, cut your hair according to the organization's requirements and send it to them.
Some organizations that accept hair donations for cancer patients include Children With Hair Loss, Hair We Share, Locks of Love, Wigs for Kids, and St. Baldrick's.
Children With Hair Loss requires a minimum of 8 inches of hair that is preferably not chemically treated. They accept grey hair and color-treated hair as long as it is in good condition.
Hair We Share requires a minimum of 8 inches of hair that is not highlighted. They accept hair that has been dyed but not bleached.
St. Baldrick's does not collect hair donations, but they hold head-shaving events where volunteers can shave their heads and donate their hair to another organization.
