PEABODY — Peabody Public Schools’ cosmetology program will host a benefit on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, to raise funds for two former students facing significant personal challenges.
According to Peabody Public Schools Superintendent Josh Vadala, the fundraiser, titled “Strands of Strength,” will support Jennessey, a former Peabody cosmetology student battling cancer, and Victor, another former Peabody cosmetology student who lost his home in a fire this summer. The event will take place at Peabody High School, located at 485 Lowell Street, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026.
The benefit will feature haircuts, blow-dries and mini facials, with services ranging in price from $30 to $45, along with raffles, prizes and a bake sale. All proceeds will benefit Jennessey and Victor.
Organized by Peabody cosmetology instructors Kristen Childs and Cecilie Boga, the benefit will bring together students, alumni, local businesses, families and community members. All proceeds will be distributed to Jennessey and Victor.
“No matter what grade you graduated, you are always a part of the Peabody family,” Childs said. “This event is about coming together as a community to support Jennessey and Victor and show them that they are not alone.”
The benefit will feature hair and beauty services, raffle baskets and prizes, a bake sale, and participation from local salons and businesses.
The benefit is open to the public, and Peabody residents, local businesses, students, alumni and other community members are encouraged to attend and show their support, Superintendent Vadala said.
“This is more than a fundraiser,” Boga said. “This is a reminder of what can happen when a community stands together in support of their own.”
Superintendent Vadala said the district’s commitment its students extends beyond graduation.
“Whether a student is currently sitting in one of our classrooms or graduated years ago, they remain an important part of our school family,” Superintendent Vadala said. “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 by Monday, Nov. 2, by contacting Kristen Childs at childsk@peabody.k12.ma.us or Cecilie Boga at bogac@peabody.k12.ma.us.
