ELKHART COUNTY — A group of barbers and hair stylists are offering discounted haircuts to the unemployed, even as their own businesses struggle to make ends meet.

Elkhart and all of Elkhart County has Indiana's highest unemployment rate right now, largely because of layoffs in the RV industry.

But now the city with a heart is trying to show some heart.

Les Eads of the Charles E Salon came up with the idea.

"I got this idea and I thought, you know, I might as well get other people in the county so we can do it together," said Eads.

He says it's his way of giving back to a community that has given him so much.

"A lot of people are too proud, so we are just going to make it easy," he said.

Eads said a few cheap haircuts could save someone the money they need for their fuel bill, or maybe just a Christmas present.

"Everyone I called was willing to do it."

Including Robby Drake who owns Rob's Barber Shop in Bristol.

"The economy is bad and people need help. So I did it just to give a helping hand," said Drake.

Also giving a helping hand or two is Julia Herschberger, the owner of Salon J in Goshen.

Herschberger says many of her customers have cut back because they, or their spouse, are out of work.

"Les called to get us involved in what was going on and I thought it sounded great, and I think people will totally appreciate it," she said.

Each owner will decide what the deal is at their business, so they urge customers to call ahead.

Les Eads, says this will be a "no questions asked" discount.

"We are like the first to take the hit, but we are the first glimmer of hope they see."

The following barber shops and salons are offering discounts:

Charles E Salon, Elkhart 574-522-1880
Salon J, Goshen 574-971-5229
Hair Dimensions, Nappanee 574-773-2222
Rob's Barber Shop, Bristol 574-370-1361
Lowell's Barber Shop, Elkhart 574-206-1900