As the tattoo artist colors Jared Peterson's arm he doesn't flinch. Both of his arms are lavishly covered with designs and different shades of color.

The artwork has already cost Peterson a pretty penny, but this week his wallet is getting a break. The Bangkok School of Tattoo and Body Piercing is offering free tattoos in exchange for school supplies.

"We're offering the public free tattoos valued at $40 in exchange for school supplies valued at $20. They need to bring the receipt and show me that they've spent at least $20 on school supplies," said Richard Rodriguez, the owner of the tattoo parlor.

Rodriguez has teamed up with the Council of Independent Brokers and Agents. The group is hosting its first annual school supply drive to help the needy children start school prepared.

Peterson is a school teacher himself and said the need in the classroom is great.

"When students don't come in with the necessary supplies it makes it really tough for them to actually participate fully. They rely on others to lend them things and borrow stuff," said Peterson.

"I personally have a son in junior high school who doesn't have a text book. He makes copies of a text book. So I thought I would jump in here. My son is part of the problem to," said Rodriguez.

During the holidays Bangkok Tattoo hosts a similar drive asking for toys. Rodriguez said the turnout is always good, and expects this one to be as well.

The partnership hopes to help between 1,000 and 2,000 children in government Section 8 Housing.

"School is our gateway to the future. Our children are our future, and if we don't care about our future, then we don't care about our children. It's sad that it takes a village to raise a child," said Al Jurado, Jr., president of the Council of Independent Brokers and Agents.

To donate new school supplies in exchange for a free tattoo head to Bangkok Tattoo at 9574 Dyer Street. Store hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The school supply drive end Aug. 14.

Organizers will the hand out the school supplies Friday, Aug. 17, at the Housing Authority on Paisano Drive from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Families are required to show proof they live in Section 8 Housing.