LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A local barber is partnering with the city to provide free haircuts and address mental health issues.

J. Alexander, a barber at The Lab Professional Barbering Services, recently launched an initiative called "Thoughts Out Loud."

"Our hope is that these barbers who have been trained on trauma informed care will be able to utilize and that you know, not only giving our clients a fresh haircut, but also be another trusted adult who is trained to engage with them and continue to encourage them along their journey," Burns-Jones, said.

The Office of Safe and Health Neighborhoods helps with the program.

"We're just privileged to be able to partner with him," Amber Burns-Jones, who is the Assistant Director of Intervention Services at the Office of Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods (OSHN), said.

Alexander recently expanded into a JCPS school.

"The haircuts are what draw you in but the meat of it is the interaction and the ability to converse and express yourself with another trusted individual," Burns-Jones, said.

According to the World Health Organization, depression is one of the leading causes of disability. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds.

The LAB Professional Barbering Services will offer free haircuts three Mondays a month to students ages 6 to 17 beginning Jan. 8. Appointments can be made between 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The shop is located at 1169 Eastern Parkway.

The program will continue until June 30, 2024. If you're a barber interested in taking part in the program, call 502-533-7149.

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