In exchange for hugs, ‘Joe the Barber’ offers haircuts for the homeless

Twenty-five years ago, shortly after entering retirement, Anthony Cymerys, now 82, started offering haircuts to the homeless.

The Hartford, Connecticut man heard a church sermon about the homeless and knew he wanted to do something practical to help the less fortunate around him. His skill set: cutting hair.

Every Wednesday, Cymerys, known locally as "Joe the Barber," sets up his barber's chair under a tree in Hartford's Bushnell Park. His homeless clients patiently line up on park benches, waiting for their turn for a hair consultation, cut and scalp massage.

"Some of them won't let anyone else touch their hair," Cymerys told the Hartford Courant.

Powering his clippers with a car battery, Cymerys offers his mobile-barbershop services for a flat rate of one hug per haircut.

The barber's practical generosity helps Hartford's homeless "not look homeless," increasing their odds of finding work.

Filmmaker J.V. Harvey tells Cymerys' story in his documentary, Ordinary Hero:

"It really is love. I love these guys. That’s what it’s all about," Cymerys told the Associated Press.

Cymerys' generosity has inspired others, too. A local church now often provides free lunches to those gathering for haircuts.