Teens create outdoor haircuts for homeless, stunned by massive response

Nestled within the heart of Frayser, a place affectionately known as “The Shop,” Darnell Wells, a skilled 19-year-old barber, was causing quite a stir. His reputation extended beyond his adeptness with scissors; it was his boundless compassion that truly set him apart.

During the course of this summer, he decided to transcend the confines of his barbershop and extend a helping hand to those who were unable to visit him.

“In the beginning, our intention was simple – to offer assistance, to touch a few lives,” Wells contemplated. “However, the response we garnered was nothing short of overwhelming. We never could have predicted the extent of the impact we would create.”

Imagine this scene: the scorching sun of a Memphis summer, an impromptu barber setup adorned with a crimson lawn chair, and the soft buzz of clippers. This was Wells’ humble stage. Yet, he wasn’t embarking on this endeavor alone. A friend, equally fervent about making a positive change, stood by his side.

Together, they embarked upon their mission, ready to alter lives, one haircut at a time.

“At the outset, progress was gradual. Initially, only a couple of individuals approached us. However, word spread like wildfire, and as the day drew to a close, I had styled the hair of nine individuals, with a queue that seemed unending. And the icing on the cake? We handed out around 30 burgers to those who graced us with their presence,” Wells recounted, his eyes shimmering with the delight of giving.

The idea of incorporating burgers into their initiative was the brainchild of Zac Sherrod. Unwilling to settle for solely providing haircuts, Sherrod desired to ensure that no one departed with an empty stomach. He generously funded this meal initiative from his own pocket.

“When I stumbled upon Darnell’s post on Facebook about this venture, I knew I had to participate. It was a call to action I couldn’t dismiss,” Sherrod articulated with fervor.

For both young men, this endeavor wasn’t a mere one-time event. It was a calling, a mission.

“There was an unmistakable sensation, almost divine, that impelled us to do more, to become more. We wholeheartedly believed we were heeding a higher calling,” Sherrod pondered, reflecting on their shared sense of purpose.

Their heartwarming gesture rapidly captured the attention of the online community. Social media platforms buzzed with discussions, and their tale swiftly went viral, accumulating tens of thousands of likes and shares.

“To be honest, we didn’t embark on this for recognition. Nevertheless, I felt an inner urge to share our story, with the aspiration that it might ignite a spark within others to do good,” Wells divulged, underscoring the far-reaching impact of kindness.

However, it wasn’t just about the physical transformation.

The dynamic duo found themselves entangled in profound conversations with those they assisted.

“It was a mutual exchange. They disclosed their journeys, their struggles, and in turn, they presented us with a treasure trove of life lessons,” Wells elaborated, highlighting the profound connections they fostered.

Having gained this valuable experience, Wells now looks to the future, particularly focusing on the youth of Memphis.

“Material possessions ebb and flow. But the joy of giving? That’s timeless. I yearn for the younger generation to comprehend the incredible power inherent in positive actions, and for them to recognize that they too can effect change,” he asserted with unwavering conviction.

Sherrod nodded in agreement, supplementing, “Being a part of this? It stands as one of the most gratifying experiences of my life.”