EDISON – Police officers in Edison and Metuchen are getting hairy for a good cause.
At a swearing in ceremony for two new officers in Metuchen on Nov. 6, Metuchen Police Chief David Irizarry made light about some members of the force growing facial hair.
“Don’t think we’re just getting sloppy here in the Borough of Metuchen, it’s a temporary thing,” he said, explaining that the officers are participating in the “No-Shave November” campaign.
No-Shave November is a web-based, non-profit organization devoted to growing cancer awareness and raising funds to support cancer prevention, research and education.
Nearly 50 police officers of the Edison Police Department have pledged donations of $50 or more and will grow facial hair as part of the department’s “No-Shave November” campaign. Officers hope to raise $10,000 for cancer research and raise public awareness about cancer-related health issues.
“Men’s health issues, for instance, prostate and testicular cancer, receive little attention,” said Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan. “Our participation in No-Shave November is meant to start a community dialogue. Hopefully, our officers can encourage more residents to go for checkups and cancer screening.”
Edison Police Officer John Mpletsakis, who serves as the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) No. 75 state delegate, proposed Edison’s participation in No-Shave November, which was quickly supported up the chain of command.
“Anyone whose life or whose loved ones have been touched by cancer realizes how vital it is for everyone to join forces against this disease,” Edison PBA President Michael Schwarz said.
Edison Mayor Thomas Lankey, who serves as the public safety director, suspended the police department’s grooming standards until Nov. 30 for the campaign. Ordinarily, police officers must be clean shaven except for mustaches.
“Once again, our officers are going above and beyond their regular law enforcement duties to embrace this worthwhile charitable cause and highlight an important health concern,” Lankey said adding that he is proud of the officers dedication to the community.
Contributions will be accepted through Nov. 30 at https://no-shave.org.
Money raised during the No-Shave November campaign will go to the American Cancer Society, Prevent Cancer Foundation, Fight Colorectal Cancer and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
