By JOANNE L. PAPAIANNI
Police in Asbury Park are saving on shaving this month as part of a No Shave November fundraiser for cancer awareness.
Police Officer Steven McCarthy, who is the Police Benevolent Association Local 6 president, is the impetus for the fundraiser.
He said over half the department is participating by not shaving and donating $50 to the event.
McCarthy said half of the funds raised will be donated to St. Jude’s Hospital and the other half will stay in town as a donation to the city’s recreation committee.
“It’s to raise awareness about cancer. It’s a conversation starter about this horrible disease,” McCarthy said.
He said her learned about the program from a friend at Bank of America and decided to try it here.
McCarthy said he did not start the campaign for anyone in particular but said in future years the PBA may consider it.
“This is a pilot year and then we’ll see how it goes,” he said.
He said by growing facial hair they are embracing hair to honor those who lose their hair to chemotherapy.