Since 2012, residents in and near Poplarville have been foregoing a shave for the entire month of November to raise funds to help children have a better Christmas.

Over those seven years, Poplarville’s No Shave November has raised an average of $2,400 each year, all of which is used to provide toys and clothes to children in need during the Christmas holidays. In that time, the volunteer effort has helped more than 400 children.

Daniel Wise helps organize the no shave aspect of the fundraising event each year, and said the local effort is an off shoot of the national No Shave November, which focuses on prostate cancer awareness. Wise said the local effort changed its focus due to the need in this community.

Children who benefit from this effort are referred by the staff of the Poplarville School District and by Brother’s Keepers Ministries. Wise said that if there is any money left after helping the children, the difference of what is raised each year is donated to Brother’s Keeper Ministries. All money raised is provided to the Baptist Student Union, who purchases the toys or clothes.

In order to raise those funds, participants seek out sponsors to agree to donate money for each day that the participant does not shave. There are 30 days in November.

Wise said that the students at Pearl River Community College have become involved by donating a toy. In the last couple of years, a couple truck loads of toys were collected each year.

When clothes are to be donated to a family, Wise said a representative will contact the family to get the proper sizes for the child so the jacket, sweater and other clothes fit.

Parents pick up the donations at a location in Poplarville, while volunteers keep the children distracted.

This year, Wise hopes to be able to help more than 50 children by providing them with a nice Christmas using the donations.

Poplarville Mayor Rossie Creel said he’s participated in the No Shave November for the past couple of  years and added that it’s always a privilege to be able to help children in need.

“I am encouraging folks to donate and participate,” Creel said.

To participate in the fundraiser or for more information contact Wise at 601-329-0555.