VIDALIA — Concordia Parish law enforcement and emergency officials are issuing a challenge to residents and business owners — let it grow.

The Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office is spearheading a “No-Shave November” campaign this month to raise cancer awareness.

CPSO Chief Deputy David Hedrick said he contacted area law enforcement agencies this week to gauge interest for the campaign.

“One of my deputies came to me and wanted to show a big sign of support for cancer survivors in our area,” Hedrick said. “We ran it by all our local police and fire departments and found that everyone wanted to get involved.”

Those participating are asked to donate $20 to the CPSO, with the money collected and eventually donated to the American Cancer Society.

Employees at CPSO, Vidalia, Ferriday and Ridgecrest police departments as well as fire departments have already donated and agreed to participate, Hedrick said.

“All of us joined together are asking all the local businesses and individuals to help us raise money by participating in this event,” Hedrick said. “We’re trying to raise as much money as possible and grow the beards to show support for cancer awareness.”

Even those that don’t want to let their facial hair roam free are encouraged to donate for the cause.

“If anybody else wants to donate 50 cents or whatever they can, we will take it,” Hedrick said. “This is all about raising money for the American Cancer Society.”

Having a parish full of bearded law enforcement officers and fire fighters is merely an added bonus, Hedrick said.

“We’re going to have some raggedy looking guys walking around our parish,” Hedrick said. “But we’re going to look raggedy to help raise cancer awareness.”

Monetary donations can be mailed or dropped off at Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office at 4001 Carter St., Room 7, Vidalia, La., 71373. Checks can be made payable to the American Cancer Society.

For more information, call 318-336-5231 or search Facebook for Concordia Parish Movember.