Snip Snip Hooray!

ALBUQUERQUE – This weekend, Albuquerque kids will find more than backpacks and school supplies at Cruzin' Into the School Year. Thanks to two local barber colleges, students can also head to class with confidence from one of 800 free haircuts.

"We want to take any stress out of starting school," said Mayor Tim Keller. "So we’re setting kids up with all they need to succeed, whether that's a backpack filled with supplies, a new do, or a friendly place to go after the bell rings."

Cruzin' Into the School Year, a group effort of the City’s Department of Youth and Family Services and Office of Equity and Inclusion along with local schools, businesses, healthcare providers, and nonprofits, provides free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, health resources, and financial guidance. Other partners include A Better U Barber Academy, Albuquerque Barber College, Presbyterian Turquoise Care, Coyote Gravel, UNM Health, and Bank On Burque.

 “We want to give back, and it helps all our students get practice,” said Albuquerque Barber College owner and director, Ryan Abeya. “Everyone wants to go back to school with a fresh cut and confidence on the first day.”

 Back-to-School Kickoff

 What: Cruzin’ Into the School Year

 When: Saturday, August 1 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

 Where:

• West Mesa Community Center at 5500 Glenrio Rd. NW
• The Community Center at 7505 Kathryn SE
• Veteran's Memorial Center at 1100 Louisiana SE, presented by Americans for Indian Opportunity

 Families must pre-register for free backpacks and school supplies. Students must be present to receive backpacks and supplies. Registration is free at cabq.gov/curuzin

 Families can learn more about available programs, participating locations, and registration by visiting play.cabq.gov or calling 505-767-5800.

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