Mount Vernon — More than 90 students from throughout the area were treated to free back-to-school haircuts thanks to Alexandria and Fairfax County firefighters who sponsored the second annual Cuts for Kids Day Aug. 27 at the Gum Springs Recreation Center.

“We saw the need for something like this last year and are excited about the success of our Cuts for Kids Day,” said Capt. Willie Bailey, an organizer of the event. “I can't thank the barbers enough for donating their time today to help kids get excited and ready for school next week.”

Children were entertained by a clown and were treated to face painting and animal balloons courtesy of Apple Credit Union while volunteers from Life Safety used puppets to teach fire safety.

“I can't thank our sponsors enough for all their help in making today a success,” Bailey said. “Serving the community and helping kids feel more confident as they head back to school is why we are doing this.”