Six-year-old Kristen Shrum recently donated her hair to Locks of Love at Great Clips in Jackson.

Kristen is the daughter of Chris and Sherri Shrum. Stylist Kim Rollet cut her hair for the donation.

Locks of Love is a not-for-profit organization that uses donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics for financially disadvantaged children younger than 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses provided by Locks of Love helps restore children's self-esteem and confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.

Hair donations can be processed by salons or by the donor. Requirements are available at www.locksoflove.org/donate_hair.php.

The majority of hair donated comes from children who wish to help other children. But donations from men and women, young and old, all colors and races, are needed. Hair may be colored or permed, but not bleached or chemically damaged (if unsure, ask a stylist). Hair swept off the floor is not usable.

Hair cut years ago is usable if it has been stored in a ponytail or braid.

Hair does not have to be cut by a professional as long as the above guidelines are followed.