LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Newburg Middle School in Louisville offers free haircuts to students, helping those in need.  

C.J. Carter has been cutting hair since the fourth grade. He has a barbershop in south Louisville.

“With the young men that we service in the barbershop and in the overall community, it's unfortunate that on a weekly basis, I hear of a story of a young man who's passed away, who's (overdosed), who's done something stupid with their life,” he said.

Carter said the negativity inspired him to do something positive for the community. He gives free haircuts to Newburg Middle School students each Monday and said it's more than just giving them a fresh look. 

“[Carter] gives me a conversation, sometimes advice, and I appreciate it," said Ivan Munoz, Newburg Middle School eighth grader. "It's entertaining and good advice." 

“We can provide a safe space in the school where we can provide those supportive services, from mentorship, personal development, skill-building,” Carter said.

He said he has given about 900 haircuts since the program started four years ago. School staff said there is a need for this in their building.

“We realized that when students ... don't look good, they don't feel good," said Petrina Thompson, Newburg Middle School youth service coordinator. "It builds self-confidence; you can see how they walk differently when they leave from in here. They are more confident, because again, it helps with attendance." 

It’s all worth it when Carter flips the mirror around to show the student their fresh cut. 

“I know it’s clean," Carter said as he finished a haircut. "You see that smile right there? That's what I’m talking about ... you have a great day today. All right, buddy?" 

Carter started a nonprofit, Sharp Futures, to grow the number of schools with barbershops. It expanded to Lexington this year, serving Tates Creek Middle School. He added he is planning on expanding to more Jefferson County middle schools.