Free haircuts a holiday gift from Wheaton salon owners

Qamil Demiri acknowledges that a free $5 haircut from his mother's Wheaton hair salon will not save anybody from financial ruin. But he said a good haircut during the holidays can help people by boosting their self confidence at social occasions.

"It's not that big of a deal but we like to help people out," he said. "We're trying to help out the less fortunate to look good for the holidays."

For the second straight year, Demiri Hair Stylists offered free haircuts for four hours Sunday. Owner Fete Demiri had a full contingent of employees ready to go, but for most of the early afternoon, the six stylists outnumbered the customers. However, Qamil said a late surge helped the shop reach 100 customers by the end of the day.

Fete has been in the business for more than 25 years and said she just wanted to offer something for people to enjoy during the slumping economy.

"With the economy going down, we felt people need something, especially during the holidays," she said. "People want to look nice and clean for the holidays. We wanted to try to help anybody who needs it."

Fete has run the shop since it opened in September of 2007. Although usually closed Sundays, she opened the salon from noon to 4 p.m. as her employees volunteered their time to help.

Carol Stream resident John Johnston said the offer gave him one less thing to worry about as he struggles with his mortgage payments and everyday bills.

He used to be a frequent customer at Demiri until a friend started cutting his hair. But with his friend backed up until after the holidays, he returned to the salon.

"It needed it so bad," Johnston said with a laugh. "I think it's great to draw business here. It's good enough to see that $5 sign but today, it's great. It's hard to make it, but at least I have a good cut now."