Peru corps outreach a cut above the rest
Peru corps outreach a cut above the rest
For the Ate Corps in Peru, offering free haircuts to people in a local settlement is proving to be a unique mission tool in connecting with the local community.
The Ate Corps in Lima, Peru, has introduced a unique mission tool to connect with the local community – free haircuts.
The Salvation Army recently partnered with the Technical Academy in Cosmetology and Hairstyles, “Beto Oliva”, to offer free haircuts in the nearby Micaela Bastidas settlement.
“We told the academy about the work the Army does for people in need and they willingly accepted the invitation to participate,” said Ate Corps Officer, Captain Enrrique Choquehuanca.
Captain Choquehuanca said many people who lived in this settlement could not afford basic services, and wasn’t surprised when about 85 children and adults turned up to receive a haircut. Many asked when it would be held again.
Local children were interested in the work of The Salvation Army, with some coming to Sunday School the next week.
“One woman who was passing by, saw the offer for free haircuts and brought all her children,” he said. “We invited them to the Sunday school, and on the next Sunday, they came to our temple to participate.”
In addition to free haircuts, the corps distributed literature, water and provided information on The Salvation Army’s work, while the Lima Central Corps brass band played.
Children participated in activities during “Hora de Gozo” (“Hour of Joy”) and received gift bags that included a toothbrush, snacks, a New Testament, and an invitation to attend services and programs at the corps.
The Salvation Army also organised an information session to prepare residents for emergencies and natural disasters.
This story first appeared at mobilising.salvationarmy.org/#!/blog/saw-peru-haircuts
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