A local tattoo shop owner is using his childhood experience in the foster care system to give back this holiday season.
Robert Gonzalez, owner of Koolsville Tattoos, operates nine stores across the valley. His story began in the 1970s when he was put into foster care after the death of his father.
"When you get there, you're just like a deer in the headlights," Gonzalez shares. "You don't know what to expect, you don't know why you're there. It's probably one of the worst feelings that you can have."
Gonzalez spent the rest of his childhood in foster care, passing the time by learning how to draw.
Now, his childhood hobby a drawing has fueled a successful career.
This holiday season, Koolsville Tattoos is offering free $50 flash tattoos to anyone who brings in at least $30 worth of new clothes, toys, pajamas or other items.
"That makes my heart warm that I can afford to do that and help them," said Gonzalez.
From now until December 19, people can stop by any Koolsville Tattoo location to donate and claim your free tattoo!