ABBEVILLE, La. (KLFY)- Many students are heading back to school this week and a local barber wanted to help out the best way he knows how. 

 

Ronald Lewis has held his ‘Back to School Kutz Drive’ for the past eight years at his shop in Abbeville. He wanted to ensure kids had a fresh air cut before starting the year.  

 

“I wanted to give the parents a break and make sure the children have and successful school year,” said Lewis. 

 

In his shop is 15-years-old Jason Charles. “Giving is better than just always trying to find something to take because when you help people you never know. That person just may come help you around the corner one day,” said Charles. 

 

Inspired by his uncle, he ‘s been cutting since the age of 10 and wanted to help make a difference in his community. “It gives me a big smile because I see that we giving back to them and that show their parents, you know, that we just don’t care for them about the money. It really comes from the heart,” he added. 

 

Youth Community Activist, Mark Campbell, said it’s all about changing the kid’s mindsets. “We have so much violence in this community that the kids need to see something different,” said Campbell. 

 

He mentioned that this event is more than just about haircuts. It’s about changing lives. “We’re instructing, we’re tutoring them. We’re giving them life skills. Telling them about grades and academics,” he added. 

 

Kids from all over lined-up for the free shape-up. They also received backpacks, pencils, paper and more. 

 

Ronald Lewis’ ‘Kut Doctor’ Barber Shop is located at 1722 Society Street in Abbeville.