UPDATE: Books and Barbers will be holding a back to school bash on July 27 at 5 p.m. at Prince Cuts Barbershop. Adam “Pacman” Jones and Miss Kentucky Alex Francke will also be there.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – A local barbershop is touting the “Books and Barbers” program as a brand new service that provides a male role model in the lives of children who might not otherwise have one.
At Prince Cuts Barbershop, they’re not only focusing on how the kids look on the outside but also at what’s happening on the inside. The “Books and Barbers” program was started by Fayette County teacher Simon Vanderpool as a way to make a difference in the lives of children with absent fathers.
It’s something Vanderpool knows about firsthand.
“It’s been a lifetime goal of mine to be able to set up something for kids living in the same circumstances that I did,” said Vanderpool.
All kids have to do is walk through the door, pick out a book and read.
“The barber helps them with some of the words from the book and opens up a natural conversation,” explains Vanderpool.
Aside from getting a sticker and a little cash, the child also gets to keep the book and most importantly they gain a mentor.
Vanderpool is hopeful other businesses in Lexington will adopt similar programs with the goal of helping as many children as possible.
If you would like to reach out and help the program, you can reach out directly to Simon at simonvanderpool@gmail.com or call 606-304-1173.
You can also drop off books at the barbershop located at 2573 Richmond Road.
