Miller-Motte College donated supplies to Brookdale Warming Center so they can open a hair salon and barbershop for residents. Thanks to the supplies and Cosmetologist Angular Bonner, residents will be able to receive haircuts, styling, beard and mustache grooming, and other services. You can view photos of the salon here.

On Friday, February 19, Miller-Motte Executive Director Rhonda Evans and Admissions Director Shana Joiner brought a dryer chair, styling chair, small styling mobile station, 2 chair floor mats, shampoo chair, rolling cart for supplies, assorted shampoo and other hair products, towels, roller sets, a hand held hair dryer, and a set of clippers with scissors, combos, and brushes.

“When the pandemic hit, Miller-Motte decided to end its Cosmetology program to keep students and instructors safe. So we had this equipment just sitting there,” says Miller-Motte College Executive Director Rhonda Evans. “We met with Alison (Bender) to brainstorm ways Miller-Motte could give back by partnering with Brookdale, and this was a perfect fit!”

Alison Bender is the Volunteer Coordinator at Brookdale Warming Center and says this particular partnership gives residents a much-needed sense of normalcy. “We all take for granted the fact that we can go and get a haircut or visit the barbershop anytime. For those who are housing insecure, it sparks confidence, self-esteem, and it gives them encouragement. Once a resident visits this salon, we see others jump at their opportunity, too. It really helps with morale.”

Ms. Bonner heard about the Brookdale Warming Center and knew she needed to jump in and offer her services. She’s spent the past week decorating the room and stocking its shelves. “I wanted to give back. God has blessed me in so many ways, so I wanted to pass that on,” says Ms. Bonner, who’s been a cosmetologist for more than a decade. “It gives me a way to master my craft while helping others.”

“The biggest strength of the Brookdale Warming Center, as a pop-up non-profit, is these community partnerships,” says Center Director Steve Bell. “That’s what makes us strong and equipped to help as many people as possible. It’s the only way we can function.”

Mayor Lester Miller will announce on Tuesday, February 23 at 2:00 p.m. a new round of foundation and business donations to help support the residents at the Brookdale Warming Center. The announcement will be made live on Facebook at www.facebook.com/maconbibbcounty. If you would like to join the effort, you can volunteer at the Center, make a donation at www.unitedwaycg.org/covid19donate, or drop off any of the following items.  

• 55-gallon trash bags
• Individual, pre-packaged snacks
• Men and womens’ underwear
• Tennis shoes, specifically mens’ sizes 9 – 11
• New, unopened full-sized sheets
• Bottled water