PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh-area merchants know how expensive back-to-school time can be for parents, especially with the economy.

Channel 11 News went looking for freebies offered by area businesses.

The owner of Success Barbershop in the Monroeville Mall is offering free back-to-school haircuts for children.

Charles Fowlks says he started the program about 10 years ago.

"It's like a blessing to me and a blessing to them at the same time," said Fowlks.

Kids can get their free haircut through Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. No appointment is necessary.

Local restaurants also offer freebies for kids.

Click Here For More On How Your Kids Can Eat For Free

Eat n' Park offers free baby food, and children five and younger can eat from the breakfast bar or soup and salad bar for free when a parent purchases one for themselves.

IHOP's, Denny's and Lone Star Steak House also offer free meals to children on certain days.