Hairdresser who gave free haircuts to homeless people named Cork Person of the Month
Joe Byrne (right), who has given free haircuts to hundreds of homeless people over the years, at his salon Joseph’s Hair Salon in Glasheen. Pictured here with his husband, Darren Kilkenny, and Caitriona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners. Picture: Larry Cummins
Well-known Cork hairdresser Joseph Byrne has been chosen as February’s Cork Person of the Month in recognition of four successful decades running the recently closed Joseph’s Hair Salon in Glasheen and his immeasurable generosity to the people of Cork throughout the years.
For decades, Mr Byrne offered more than just a hairdressing service at his salon; he built relationships with some of the most vulnerable people in Cork City, providing free haircuts to homeless people, turning his business into “a hub of compassion.”
He also extended the service to children going back to school or making their First Communions, as well as delivering back-to-school kits and Easter eggs to local families and collecting food donations for Cork Penny Dinners.
Mr Byrne said his childhood served as the inspiration for this initiative.
He said that, having grown up in a family that didn’t have a lot, he was “compelled to do his part to relieve some of the worry for struggling families and for individuals” who face hardship in Cork City.
“I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power a simple haircut can have on people," Mr Byrne said.
"These free haircuts aren’t just about making people look better, they’re about restoring dignity, boosting confidence and bringing smiles to faces during a time when people need it most.
"It’s always been incredibly rewarding seeing how a fresh look and a conversation can lift peoples’ spirits and make a meaningful difference to their lives."
Joseph's Hair Salon closed late in 2024, but Mr Byrne still held his Christmas event, opening his doors to the homeless people of Cork for one final time.
He continues to provide a service for vulnerable people, visiting shelters such as Edel House to provide free haircuts for residents.
Awards Organiser Manus O’Callaghan spoke highly of Mr Byrne, stating that over the years, he has become a cherished figure in the community, not only as a local business owner but also as a true advocate of kindness.
"His charity extended through every corner of the city, especially during the more challenging times, Mr O'Callaghan said.
"Whether it was organising food drives or offering support in the form of a free haircut, Joe’s ethos is one of making someone's day a little bit better”.
Although the closure of his salon signals the end of an era, Mr O’Callaghan emphasised that his impact will live on through the many lives he has touched
"Cork will remember him as much more than a hairdresser. His contributions to those in need have created a lasting legacy, one that exemplifies the best of Cork's community spirit.
“Embodying exactly what it means to be a true community hero, Joe is selfless, compassionate and deeply committed to uplifting those in the community through both little and large acts of kindness. For that, I’m delighted to honour him with this Cork Person of the Month Award”, he said.
Mr Byrne's name will go forward alongside the other monthly winners for possible selection as Cork Person of the Year at the annual Gala Awards Lunch in January 2026.
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