Peabody Cosmetology Benefit Set To Help 2 Former Students

PEABODY, MA — Peabody Public Schools' cosmetology program will host a community benefit on Nov. 9 to support two former students facing major hardships.

The event will run from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. and raise money for Jennessey, a former Peabody Cosmetology student battling cancer, and Victor, a former student who lost his home in a fire this summer.

The benefit is being organized by Peabody Cosmetology instructors Kristen Childs and Cecilie Boga. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to Jennessey and Victor.

Organizers said the event reflects the ties that continue beyond graduation for students in Peabody Public Schools.

"No matter what grade you graduated, you are always a part of the Peabody family," said Childs. "This event is about coming together as a community to support Jennessey and Victor and show them that they are not alone."

The afternoon will include hair and beauty services, raffle baskets and prizes, a bake sale, local salons and businesses, and other opportunities for community members to give back.

The event is open to the public, including current and former members of the Peabody Public Schools community, residents and local businesses.

The benefit offers local salons and beauty professionals a chance to connect with the Peabody Cosmetology community, showcase their services, network with other professionals and meet potential clients while supporting the fundraiser.

"This is more than a fundraiser," said Boga. "This is a reminder of what can happen when a community stands together in support of their own."

Superintendent Josh Vadala said the event reflects what he sees as a defining part of the district's culture.

"This benefit is a powerful example of what makes the Peabody Public Schools community so special," said Vadala. "Whether a student is currently sitting in one of our classrooms or graduated years ago, they remain an important part of our school family. When members of our community face difficult and unexpected circumstances, we come together to lift them up, and I am incredibly proud of our Cosmetology program, our staff, students, alumni and local partners for showing Jennessey and Victor that they do not have to face these challenges alone."

Community members and local businesses interested in volunteering or donating items or services are asked to RSVP to Kristen Childs at childsk@peabody.k12.ma.us by Nov. 2.