A Ballyfermot man who was once homeless has transformed his appearance for charity.
Eddie Brennan 'Braved the Shave' to raise funds for the Salvation Army yesterday in The Grafton Barber on Grafton Street. Eddie hasn't shaved his beard for over four years and became known on the streets of the capital for his unique look.
The Dubliner was once homeless but has now found a support system through the Salvation Army who has helped him back on his feet. The Salvation Army has provided Eddie with accommodation in a hostel for the past two years.
Eddie, 54, recently moved into the basement flat of York House on Longford Street, which is a major stride towards living independently - and he is doing all he can to raise funds and awareness for those who helped him.
Read more: Ballyfermot man to shave beard for first time in four years for charity
He told Dublin Live: “I’m trying to raise a few funds for the Salvation Army. I’ve been there for the past two years and I just want to show a bit of appreciation for the service as a little thank you, to raise a few bob for them. They’ve looked after me for the past couple of years.
“They were asking if I was sure because it’s (my beard) is my signature, it’s me. They said it’s a big thing but I said I was glad to do it.”
A spokeswoman from the Salvation Army added: “We’re very grateful to Eddie...we were a bit apprehensive to what he’d look like (without the beard). The Salvation Army is not just a place to stay, you can transform yourself, and you can't get more literal than this."
Last week, Eddie spoke about the brilliant service provided by the charity: “I’ve been with The Salvation Army for just over two years and I know it can be a thankless job for the people working in the hostels, who are dealing with everything from chronic mental illness to addiction. It’s a very tough job.
“They’ve supported me to get me to where I am and to prepare me for my next step, which will hopefully be my own place. This is really just my way of showing gratitude for how much they’ve helped me.
“They’ve worked with me to get to this point over the past two years, all at my own pace,” Eddie said.
Eddie spoke about his move to his new flat: “Moving here is a sort of taste of what life will be like on my own; to buy my own food and cook and clean and to get the feel for living on my own.”
Eddie revealed his new clean-shaven look to Dublin Live. He laughed when he looked in the mirror saying "I don't know who your man is." When asked if he would keep his new look, Eddie wasn't too convinced but said he'll give it a go.
You can back Eddie's fundraising efforts here.
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