Haircuts for Hope: St. Thomas Student Uses His Skills to Support Schools in Ukraine
by Marilyn Santucci
For Aleksander, a Grade 10 student at St. Thomas High School, a simple haircut turned into something much more—a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Aleksander grew up in Pointe-Claire and is proud of his Ukrainian roots. At home, he and his three brothers—Philip, Julian, and Danylo—speak Ukrainian and remain closely connected to their culture. He also serves as an altar boy at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. George in Lachine, where the idea for his project first began.
“One day I gave a free haircut to a young Ukrainian refugee who had just arrived in Montreal. That moment made me think about how I could use my skills to help even more people,” Aleksander shared.
With family still in Ukraine and the impact of the war weighing heavily on him, Aleksander launched Haircuts for Hope, a personal fundraising initiative to support the rebuilding of schools in Ukraine. Partnering with United24—Ukraine’s official fundraising platform—he chose to support the education fund, with a personal goal of raising $1,000 by August 31, 2025.
“I chose education because I kept thinking about kids trying to learn in bomb shelters or in schools that had been destroyed. I wanted to do something to help give them a chance to learn in a safe place again,” he said.
Aleksander discovered his love for barbering last year through an after-school program at St. Thomas, in partnership with “Quality Cuts” in Pierrefonds. After completing the course, he pursued additional certifications and now works part-time at Dynasty Barber Shop in Pointe-Claire.
At school, Aleksander was donating 100% of the proceeds from each haircut to the fundraiser. But due to limited time and availability, he extended the project into the summer. Now, while working at the shop, he continues to donate $10 from each haircut toward his goal.
“The school was really supportive in helping me get started, and I’m grateful for that,” he said. “It meant a lot that the staff and principal believed in the idea.”
In the future, Aleksander hopes to involve his brothers in fundraising efforts as well. He also plans to continue barbering part-time while in CEGEP, balancing his craft with his studies.
His message to the LBPSB community? “You don’t have to wait until you’re older to make a difference. If you have a skill, use it. Even small actions can help. I’m thankful for everyone who has supported Haircuts for Hope so far—every bit truly makes a difference.”
8 Responses
Aleksander, I live in Nova Scotia. How can I contribute to your educational campaign for the children of Ukraine?
Let’s all make a donation
ALEKSANDER ..Your parents and family are beyond proud of your initiative ..you are a fine example of a role model for the entitled youth of today….you certainly make a positive contribution to make this a better world for this and future generations..we ❤️ you and don’t give up.you are a winner ..God bless you
BABA AND DIDO
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Giving back as young adults its a beautiful gift. Keep sharing kindness and good luck in your journey 💙🔝
Baba Valia
I’m so proud of my grandson. These children will be the peacemakers of this world.
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Hero’s!
🙏Baba Valia
Proud grandmother of my grandson. These children will be the peacemakers of this world.
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Hero’s !
I am so proud that youth has vision, convictions and drive to help others. Bravo Aleksander! You area role model to your peers. God Bless you and may you continue with good endeavours such as this. Gliry to Ujraine. Glory to the Heroes.
Alexander’s passionate support of others in distress demonstrates how today’s youth can contribute to make the world a better place. God Bless you Alexander!