A Cut in Business

Al’s Barbershop, like many other barbershops, has been feeling the pain of COVID-19. Although the shelter in place orders came fast, Al’s was able to react just as quickly.

“We've been closed since March 16th per the state's shelter-in-place order. We shut down immediately, informed all of our clients that had appointments and our larger client base shortly after," said barber Joe Polissky. "Originally, we were advised that the order would likely be lifted by the beginning of April. This was then revised to May, now June. We are patiently awaiting the definite date we can go back to work.”

While Al’s is waiting, like many other shops, they have come across a sudden financial roadblock. Without customers, Al’s cannot make the money needed to pay for rent. Only recently has Al’s been able to qualify for unemployment insurance.

“Unfortunately, since we are all independent contractors, we didn't immediately qualify for Unemployment Insurance or Paycheck Protection Program. Only about a week ago were we able to apply for the newly revised Pandemic Unemployment Assistance from the state of CA," said Polissky.

When asked about applying for rent relief from the government Al's said, “We have applied to some programs, but either did not qualify because of the nature of our business or haven't heard back. After speaking with colleagues it seems like most of us are in the same boat.”

Although not all is lost, even though Al’s cannot give haircuts, their community is extremely supportive in this time of need.

“Our customers have been nothing short of amazing during this crisis," said Polissky. "They have stepped up in an amazing fashion. We had to reach out to our community for assistance by setting up a GoFundMe and we were met with an incredible outpouring of support.”

Knowing their customers cannot get haircuts or shaves during shelter-in-place, all of the barbers at Al's have been growing out their hair and facial hair to stand in solidarity with its community.

In an attempt to support its barbers, Al's created clothing to sell to its customers.

“We also sold Al's Barber Shop shirts and hats with all profits going directly to the barbers, owners excluded.”

Both items can be purchased at http://www.alsbarbers.bigcartel.com​

It's a win-win, as Al’s barbers are able to support themselves while their community is able to stay connected.