Orcutt family giving to 'Locks of Love'

Posted: Apr 21, 2010 9:45 AM by Monica Quintero
Updated: Apr 21, 2010 9:45 AM

An 8-year-old Orcutt girl is giving a gift to "Locks of Love" and she's getting help from her siblings. "Locks of Love" is a non-profit organization that provides hair pieces to financially disadvantaged children.

They're children in the United States and Canada who are suffering from long-term medical hair loss. A minimum of 10 inches of hair must be cut in order to donate it to "Locks of Love."

It's not all fun and games at the family's household. They're a family wanting to make a difference in the lives of others. Nanas Ward, donating hair, said, "It kind of makes me feel happy." She will be cutting off 18 inches.

It's expected to make two wigs for children with illnesses. The 8-year-old has never cut her hair. Plus, her two young brothers have also joined the effort. They're working to raise money. Anjelo Ward, raising money, said, "I thought it was important because if I had cancer and I had no hair, then I'd think I'd want help too." Vincent Ward, raising money, said, "We're trying to get more than $2,000."

Giving back has become a tradition for the Orcutt family. Once a year, they coordinate a community project. It all started with Hurricane Katrina. Corina Aguilera, mom, said, "I was trying to teach the kids how to be appreciative and thankful for what they have." So far, they've raised $650 for "Locks of Love." Aguilera said, "They make me really proud.

Sometimes, I want to ring their neck but it's times like this that I really love them and that they make me really proud." The family said local businesses have been receptive. In fact, the kids have personally met with a number of Santa Maria Town Center businesses that have agreed to display collection jars for the cause. The little girl is planning on cutting her hair June 5th. An account has been opened at the Community Bank of Santa Maria. It's called "Locks of Love Family Project." Community members can donated money there for the non-profit organization.