Salon collects backpacks for foster children

After reading a book about a child-abuse victim, beauty shop coordinator Lori Hadlock knew she wanted to do something to help children in similar situations.

She talked with fellow stylist Susie Bendure, who was eager to join the cause.

"These children are treasures," Bendure said. "Anybody who is a mother or a grandmother or has been around children, you just can't help your heart going out to them."

Through the Platinum Salon and Spa, the women organized a drive last year to collect backpacks and toiletries for children who are taken from their homes and placed in foster care.

Often, children are given a garbage bag to collect personal items and sometimes forget necessities such as toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Last year, the salon collected about 750 backpacks and have received about 300 this year. They will continue collecting donations for the next two weeks to give to the Department of Child and Family Services.

Bendure said the goal is to beat last year. And she thinks they'll do it.

"This community is so wonderful," Bendure said. "Our customers have really come through for us."

After last year's drive, they sent an e-mail to David Pelzer, author of "A Child Called It," the book that inspired the project.

They explained what they had done and what they planned to continue to do. He responded with a $500 check.

A raffle has also been set up inside the salon to raise money to buy backpacks and supplies.

Bendure said some people have donated backpacks, some supplies and some have given backpacks already stuffed with supplies. Others have donated money.

"We're not turning anything away," she said.

Any donations can be dropped off at the salon or picked up from the Governor's Mansion on May 1 from noon to 6 p.m.

You Can Help:

To make a donation, drop it off at Platinum Salon and Spa at 716 N. Carson St., suite 110. A pickup is also scheduled at the Governor's Mansion on May 1 from noon to 6 p.m.

Questions? Call the salon at 884-1001.