MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Bring in a toy, get a free tattoo; Toys for Tatts is back again this year.
House of Ink owner, "Big Jay" Guzman, is collecting brand new toys worth at least $25. In exchange, you get for a free tattoo of equal value.
"The economy is killing everybody. This is the time where more people need help putting smiles on their children's faces," Guzman said.
For the 6th year in a row, "Big Jay" is hosting his Toys for Tattoos event in Frayser.
"I participated in Toys for Tatts because I know how it is on providing for children that you just don't have and with this I am able to teach my two on how to give and also receive," said toy drive participant Jessica Bobo.
Customers can bring in a new toy worth $25 or more in exchange for a piercing or tattoo that's worth the same. The donations will be given to Tennessee-based Agape Child and Family Services, a non-profit organization that provides homeless services, mentoring, foster care, adoption, maternity services and counseling.
It hits close to home for the owner.
"I was a product of a foster care program as a child, group homes, and my mother didn't have toys, a many of years. There were times where she rewrapped old toys that we had. And i have 4 beautiful daughters and would hate to see them go through a Christmas holiday without the joy of a toy."
Business owners are encouraged to sponsor 2 to 3 children to help them receive a special gift under the Christmas tree.
House of ink is located at 2252 Frayser Blvd. You can drop in from now until Wednesday, December 5.
But, as Bobo said, "A lot of people that are donating, don't really care about the tattoos, they really wanna just help out."
