Watch the Smiles Appear as Kindhearted Barbers Offer ‘Compassion’ Cuts for Homeless

Sometimes, a new look can be the start of a whole new life.

That’s the idea behind a new project by Skullfades Barber Shop, whose barbers have been going around the streets offering free haircuts to homeless men. But a new ‘do is only the beginning for the stylists at Skullfades.

“We all have to start somewhere. Ged [King, owner of Skullfades,] giving a free cut, some compassion and kindness to one of our gents on the streets of Manchester,” wrote The Mancunian Tribe Series on their Facebook page.

The idea behind the initiative is transformation, giving the men a new look and a new lease on life that may hopefully jump start their next move. The Facebook page quotes Maya Angelou: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”

“What an amazing transformation. This lad walked towards us like and old man and swaggered off afterwards looking sharp and feeling good with his head held high. Thats what it’s all about,” Mancunian Tribe wrote in a post from Oct. 10.

Others are also basking in their transformations.

Now, what’s started out as a simple gesture is growing into something so much more. King has launched a $5,000 fundraising initiative to benefit the homeless along with a “Sleep Out,” where he and others will spend a night sleeping on the streets to raise awareness and money to help battle homelessness.

“Kind gestures really do make a massive difference to people,” King wrote on the fundraising page. “Give back to society by helping the less fortunate and please donate whatever you can.”

See more photos below.