Cuts for Peace Delivers Free Haircuts, Food & Fun to Rochester Families
Written by PJ on July 8, 2026
Rochester’s Portland Avenue neighborhood came together this past Sunday for the 5th Annual Cuts for Peace, and by every account, it was a resounding success.
Hosted by the United Professional Barber & Cosmetologist Association (UPBCA) at Andre’s Barbershop, located at 881 Portland Avenue, the free community event ran from 4:00–7:00 PM and brought neighbors, families, and local organizations together for an afternoon centered on peace, youth empowerment, and opportunity.
Kids ages 7–17 lined up for free haircuts, while families enjoyed free toys courtesy of the Pirate Toy Fund, live music, and food from Ballooney Sandwiches. Balloons, laughter, and good energy filled the block, turning a simple back-to-school haircut event into a real celebration of community.
Beyond the free services, Cuts for Peace continued to do what it’s done for five years running: give Rochester a reason to gather, connect, and invest in its youth. The event was made possible through the support of community partners including the North East Block Club Association, Peace Production Roc-City Ent DJ Services, the Portland Avenue Business Association, and Redd Horse Transport LLC.
A huge thank-you to Andre’s Barbershop and the UPBCA for once again bringing the community together — here’s to a 6th Annual Cuts for Peace next year.
Missed it this time around? You can check out our original event preview here.
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