MLB Barbershop & Salon continues commitment, gives back through annual back-to-school drive

GREAT BAY--MLB Barbershop & Salon continued its commitment to the St. Maarten community through its annual Back-to-School Drive, providing school supplies and free haircuts to children preparing for the new school year.

Owner Mr. Frank and his team distributed backpacks and school supplies while offering free haircuts throughout the day. Frank estimated that approximately 55 to 60 haircuts were completed, with every barber in the shop donating time and skills to support the initiative.

MLB Barbershop & Salon, which has received The Daily Herald’s Outstanding Barbershop Award for two consecutive years, has made community involvement an important part of its identity. For Frank, the annual drive represents more than providing supplies or a fresh haircut. It is also a way of showing appreciation to the island that he and his family call home.

“St. Maarten has given me and my family a home, and it is only fitting that I give back to the community that gives to me,” Frank said.

This year’s initiative was strengthened through a partnership with Ingemar Arndell of The Collective Podcast, who is also carrying out an annual Back-to-School Drive. By working together, the two initiatives were able to combine resources, secure additional school supplies and expand their reach to children in foster homes, group homes and other young people in need.

The collaboration allowed both initiatives to extend their impact while highlighting the value of businesses, community organizations and individuals working together in support of St. Maarten’s youth.

For Arndell, partnering with MLB Barbershop & Salon provided another opportunity to help ensure children entering the new school year feel supported, prepared and confident.

MLB Barbershop & Salon describes itself as a family-oriented and community-minded business built on hard work, kindness and a commitment to the people of St. Maarten.

Frank and his team hope their continued efforts will encourage other businesses and community members to find ways to support young people and families within their own communities.

What may appear to be a simple haircut, backpack or set of school supplies can make a meaningful difference for a child and family. Through their combined efforts, MLB Barbershop & Salon and The Collective Podcast demonstrated how community collaboration can help extend that support to more young people across St. Maarten.

‍