The haircuts are free, the rewards are endless

First in line for Tom Laktas’ makeshift barber chair is Don, who comes in every week for a high-and-tight cut like he wore in the Marine Corps.

The first time Don came to the New Hope Community Center in Mesa, he watched Tom work as he waited.

“After he cut my hair the first time, I told him I didn’t need the mirror because he does good work,” Don said. “He’s a warm gentleman. He makes me feel welcome.”

This is a welcoming place. Janine Mullinnix greets everyone at the door. “How can we help you today?” she asks.

Volunteers run the center, an outreach ministry of Broadway Christian Church, putting in 14,000 hours last year to help the 400 people who come in each month.

On Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon, people can get food, clothing, blankets and sleeping bags, medical checks, bus passes and job and education assistance.

A retired engineer helps with bicycle repairs. A couple arranges to pay bills.

Mary Jo Peacock cuts hair on Mondays, and Ruth Griffin on Tuesdays. Tom does it on Wednesdays, setting up shop by the windows.

Tom went to barber school at 17 after high school in Illinois. He worked two jobs, at a manufacturer company during the day and his barber shop in the evenings. Tom, who’s 74, never had time to volunteer much before. He’s cut hair here for two years.

“If you’re a church-going person, some of the things they teach you, well, you’re supposed to help your fellow man,” he said. He feels good when he helps others.

“Make me look flashy,” David told

Tom.

David had a stroke and can’t work. His wife says he’s embarrassed to accept help. There is no shame here. No one judges anyone.

Tom hands David a mirror. “Damn, I’m handsome,” David said.

“I’m here every Wednesday,” Tom told him. “Come back and see me.”