Grayspace Barbershop giving out free haircuts to K-12 students

For the second year in a row, Jose Gee, the artist with the golden scissors over at Grayspace Barbershop, is giving back.

Just ask around, the man knows what he’s doing and he takes pride in his craft.

Gee, who has worked as a barber at other places in Grays Harbor County, is offering free haircuts to students ranging from kindergarteners to 12th graders this Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at his shop Grayspace this year — 109 N. Park St., in Aberdeen. There is no appointment necessary and it’s first come, first served.

“This is our way of giving back to the community we love,” Gee’s Instagram post says. “Come say hi to us and enjoy a free taco.”

Grayspace is doing so with just a few days before the 2024-25 school year.

Aberdeen School District’s year starts Wednesday, according to the district’s academic calendar. Hoquiam’s school year starts Sept. 4.

The only requirement for parents, or children who head there on Sunday is they come with freshly-washed hair.

Gee spoke briefly about what started the idea to act in such a charitable way.

“I helped out in other barbershops. For the previous six years, I’ve been helping out other communities. Finally, I was able to open up my own barbershop, so now I can give back to my community.”

Gee’s long-time friend, Marisa Levao, spoke about Gee’s character.

“I have known Gee for 15-plus years and I consider him a part of my family,” Levao said. “Gee has built his dreams to reality with his discipline, work ethic and his genuine commitment to his clients and this community.”

Gee, who was part of barbering approximately 140-160 children last year, was cutting hair on Thursday. As always, he’s meticulous. But, that doesn’t mean slow. It just means that he’s precise. He takes his work seriously and he’s appreciated around town for the artist he is. Ask around.

Levao couldn’t say enough about her friend, who welcomes all and offers a “safe, listening ear” to anyone who comes for a haircut at the shop.

“He has perfected his craft over the years and has made such a positive impact on anyone who sits in his chair,” she said. “He is an inspiration to countless young adults.”

Last year, Gee said they cut hair for five hours. This year, he’ll cut hair for four hours. Gee explained why he’s shortening the time this Sunday.

“I would say I wanted to shorten it because five hours is a little too much,” Gee said. “We were able to get every kid who came … hopefully this year it’ll be the same thing, just a little shorter (time) for us.”

Any other requirements?

“That’s probably it,” Gee said. “It’s just easier. It’s a lot smoother if the kids come with freshly washed hair, because then we don’t have to cut through everything and do all that.”

Gee said it’s more of a “time thing.”

“Sometimes you’ve got knotted hair and stuff like that,” Gee said. “And you’ve just got to go through it. We’re trying to just be faster and smoother, so whatever helps you know?”

Grayspace is earning its accolades

“Grayspace is in my eyes a staple in the community, and with Gee’s exquisite style, it’s the place to be for sure,” Levao said. “Not only does he inspire, he appreciates young, local athletes and represents them any way he can. Selfless is an understatement for Gee. He has always been generous nature whether that be with friends, family or even strangers.”

Levao is excited to see “what the future has in store” for Gee.

How good does it feel to help this way?

“I feel great, just because we all have a different background,” Gee said. “I think most parents now-a-days, it’s not about what you can give, it’s what we can give to them. They’re usually kids we see the whole year, so they give us something all year. Why not give them something before school?”

Building relationships is what it’s all about for Gee. He wants to get to know his customers. Any good barber or stylist will do that.

“That’s what it’s all about,” Gee said. “You’re gonna see these kids grow up, you know? You might be a big influence to them. They might be a big influence to you. As far as like how you feel, I think everybody feels great after getting something like that.”

Contact Reporter Matthew N. Wells at matthew.wells@thedailyworld.com.