Detroit Catholic Central math teacher Mrs. Allison Hodgins recently made her 10th hair donation, contributing 13 inches to Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan, a nonprofit that provides wigs and support services to children experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions.

"Donating my hair is one way I choose to serve those in need, using a gift God has given me. I hope our boys recognize that they, too, have been blessed with many unique skills and gifts to be nurtured at CC and used in service to others," stated Mrs. Hodgins.   

Mrs. Hodgins began donating her hair in 2003 after learning about organizations like Locks of Love, which typically require 10–12 inches for wig creation. She was especially encouraged when she discovered that Wigs 4 Kids accepts donations as short as 7–9 inches, allowing more people to participate.

While researching hair donation organizations years ago, she noticed that red hair was rarely represented among the wig options shown online. That observation, combined with the fact that her red hair grows quickly, motivated her to make donating a regular part of her life.

Her most recent donation supports Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan, a local organization that offers not only wigs but also support services to help children cope with the emotional and psychological effects of hair loss.

“Hospitals and medical centers heal a child's body. Our Wellness Center focuses on the appearance-related effects of treatment. We help the children heal emotionally, socially, and psychologically,” the organization states.

Mrs. Hodgins hopes her story encourages others to consider hair donation or find other simple ways to support their communities.

For more information:

• locksoflove.org
• wigs4kids.org