Never Underestimate the Power of a Ponytail

Incarcerated Women at Mabel Bassett Correctional Center give back to kids facing medical hair loss through Cut-A-Thon

This week, the women at Mabel Bassett Correctional Center in McLoud, Okla., selflessly donated their hair to children suffering from medical hair loss, partnering with the nonprofit organization Wigs for Kids. Through a heartwarming Cut-A-Thon, 56 women voluntarily parted with their ponytails, hoping to make a lasting impact on children’s lives. Women enrolled in the R.I.S.E. Cosmetology School at MBCC performed the haircuts.

“Man, just imagine the little kids being able to have a wig,” said Christie Luther, R.I.S.E. Program executive director. “We want them to get their self-confidence back. We are so grateful to be able to serve and payback.”

The effort aims to help children struggling with hair loss due to conditions like alopecia or the effects of chemotherapy, where hair can play a crucial role in a child’s self-esteem. The decision to donate was personal for many participants. “I wanted to donate to Wigs for Kids because I’m going through cancer,” one inmate shared. “I know how hard it is to be bald.”

The drive surpassed expectations, doubling the initial goal of two dozen hair donations. “Mabel Bassett is supporting our community at all levels,” said Warden Scott Tinsley. “Having the opportunity to do something for the children, they are often forgotten. We haven’t forgotten them here.”

The collaboration with Wigs for Kids allows each donation to support children nationwide. “Their hair donations, along with the many others we have received in 2024, will result in more than 700 free wigs this year,” said Wigs for Kids Executive Director Tom Greiner. “This is a significant gift to the families of children with hair loss, with the typical cost being $3,500 for one high-quality hair piece. The donation of ponytails from the ladies at Mabel Bassett is a blessing to those children who experience the trauma of hair loss, and we are honored these women thought of us.”

As the impact of this heartfelt gesture ripples across the lives of many children, Luther shared her hope that each donation brings joy. “Some little baby is going to be so blessed,” she said.