HAMBURG, N.Y. (WBEN)......A tragedy has turned into a fledgling fund raiser aimed at aiding the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Erie County.
Hamburg barber Jay Lape - owner of the trendy Jay's Barber Shop on Buffalo Street - has put together his second annual 24-hour fundraising marathon to help raise funds for the Suicide Prevention Coalition.
The marathon begins at 10 a,m, Saturday, July 18 and runs until 10 a.m. Sunday, July 19.
Lape and four other barbers will be cutting hair, providing razor shaves and beard trims with all proceeds benefitting the coalition.
"Yes, it's a long day but it is worth it," Lape said.
Lape created the marathon as a tribute to a longtime customer, Evan Granville, who committed suicide four years ago.
"It hit too close to home for me," Lape said.
A carnival-like atmosphere has been created as part of the marathon with food trucks coming and other attractions added.
Last year, Lape's marathon raised $12,000.
His goal for this year: At least $16,000.
"After last year, we said we can't stop this, we have to keep it going," Lape said.
Lape and two other barbers are completely booked. The other two barbers are remaining open for walk-ins.
"Yes, there is a curiosity about getting your hair cut at 2 a,m, or 3 a.m.," Lape said.
Lape has 36 haircuts booked for the marathon - most with his regular customers but some new ones have been added to because of the publicity.
The long term end game is to create a larger event along Buffalo Street in the Village of Hamburg where other businesses can take part on the marathon.
"Wouldn't it be great if we could raise $100,000 each year," Lape said.
24-hour marathon set to begin Saturday
24-hour marathon set to begin Saturday
