CANTON — Two graduates of high schools in Western Foothills Regional School Unit 10 are turning their hair-cutting and styling skills into funds for the school district.

Nichole Goding, owner of Lake Hill Styles, and Brandy St. Laurent are turning over $2 for every haircut and $5 for every perm, coloring or foil for the next few months, in their Support-A-Thon for RSU 10. Double those amounts will be donated during February and April vacations.

“We’re hoping we’ll inspire other businesses and individuals to donate or in some way support the local school district,” Goding said.

Recently announced reductions in state aid to education to RSU 10 of about $900,000 is part of the reason the two young women want to help.

The two met while attending Mr. Bernard’s School of Hair Fashion in Lewiston. Goding opened the shop in the heart of town in July, St. Laurent joined her in August.

Goding, a graduate of Dirigo High School, and St. Laurent, a graduate of Buckfield High School, have each given of themselves for other causes in the past.

Goding circulated a petition to try to get school districts to install seat belts in buses for youngsters when she was younger and often checks in at the town office to learn whether there is something she can do to help others. St. Laurent works within her church for a variety of charities.

The building has housed numerous businesses in the past, including a grocery store and restaurant. It is now owned by Malcom Ray and was completely renovated and restored last summer.

“When I was a teen, I had my eye on the building as a place for teens to come to,” Goding said.

Now, eight years after graduation, she owns a business in it.

Mary Dailey, business manager at RSU 10, said donations to the district, or her previous district of SAD 21, are extremely scarce. Whenever someone does donate money, it must be designated for a specific program.

Funds raised at Lake Hill Styles will go into a reading program within the district. The first donation will be made to the school district on March 1.

“If we inspire just one person, it will help,” Goding said.

The women may be reached at 597-2675.

eadams@sunjournal.com

Brandy St. Laurent and Nichole Goding are holding a fundraiser for Western Foothills Regional School Unit 10 at their beauty shop, Lake Hill Styles in Canton.