Harker Heights Police Bring Community Together with Free Haircuts

HARKER HEIGHTS, Texas (KWTX) – Harker Heights Police organized free haircuts, games and snacks as part of their Healthy Homes community outreach program.

The Healthy Homes program is an initiative of the Harker Heights Police Department designed to connect the community’s social services with helpful resources. Program coordinator Destinee Henderson approached local barbers about volunteering their staff for the second annual Cuts With Cops event, and she was pleased with the results.

“It’s been a real blessing,” Henderson said. “I can’t tell you how excited I am to be a part of something so big.”

Knuckleheads Barbershop had staff at the event. Barbershop owner Robert York said his business was proud to provide volunteer support.

“It’s a great feeling for us when the child and the parents go home with a smile and a little something or the food that the police provided for them,” York said. “It’s a great feeling for us.”

A cornerstone of the event was connecting the community with law enforcement. Crystal Thomas, community services officer for the Harker Heights Police Department, said it was imperative for law enforcement to build a relationship with people as early as possible.

“Some of them have no contact with the police at all until they reach adulthood,” said Thomas. “That’s why it’s very important to me that we connect with them at a young age so they know we’re there for them.”

She recalled a moment at the event when a child became upset during her haircut. Thomas offered her comfort and slime to play with, after which she calmed down.

“I saw joy and it made me feel really good because they will remember that police officer helping me,” Thomas said.

The Harker Heights Police Department plans to make “Cuts With Cops” an annual event.

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