Abel Fonseca, II, is a lifelong San Benito resident and community advocate who has served local students and families for more than two decades. Through his “Heart of San Benito” series, he shares stories that celebrate the people who make the Resaca City special. He can be reached at abelfonsecaii@hotmail.com.
Sometimes the greatest acts of kindness begin with a simple conversation.
In 2004, during my first year as an After School Coordinator at Fred Booth Elementary, I made it my mission to build partnerships with local businesses that believed in giving back to San Benito’s children.
Rather than waiting for businesses to come to us, I went door to door throughout the neighborhood, introducing myself and asking one simple question: “Would you be willing to help our students in any way you can?”
One afternoon, I noticed a small neighborhood barbershop with a sign that read King Kuts Barber Shop. Since I needed a haircut anyway, I walked in, sat in the chair, and started talking with the barbers about community service.
That day, I met brothers Xavier “X” Izaguirre and Sergio “Sarg” Izaguirre. They had just opened King Kuts that same year, and it didn’t take long to realize they shared the same passion for serving others.
During my haircut, I asked them what they thought about giving back to the community by offering free haircuts to students at Fred Booth Elementary.
Without hesitation, they said yes.
Neither of us knew at the time that one conversation would grow into a community tradition that has touched the lives of hundreds—if not thousands—of children across San Benito CISD.
What started at Fred Booth Elementary quickly expanded to schools across the district.
Year after year, King Kuts barbers generously volunteered their time and talents, providing free back-to-school haircuts for students at Fred Booth Elementary, Frank Roberts Elementary, Ed Downs Elementary, Angela Leal Elementary, Rangerville Elementary, Dr. Garza Elementary, Dr. Cash Elementary, Oscar De La Fuente Elementary, and La Encantada Elementary.
The program wasn’t just about getting a haircut.
It was about giving students confidence as they entered a new school year. A fresh haircut helped many children feel proud, excited, and ready to succeed in the classroom.
It also eased the financial burden for many families preparing for the start of the school year.
Parents were always involved in the process. Permission slips were required before any haircut could be given, and many forms even included special instructions on how they wanted their child’s hair cut. Every haircut was performed with professionalism, care, and respect.
Over the years, many talented barbers have volunteered countless hours to make this program successful. Those who donated their time include: Xavier Izaguirre, Sergio “Sarg” Izaguirre, Al Saldivar, Chris Hernandez, Fabian Rico, Emmanuel Ramos, Chris Escalante, Anthony Claudio, Jose Arredondo, Abraham Escobedo, Arturo Castillo, and Carmen Lopez.
These individuals never sought recognition. They simply wanted to serve the community they call home.
Today, if you visit King Kuts Barber Shop in San Benito, you’ll still find photographs on the walls of many students whose lives were touched by this program. Those pictures tell a story far bigger than haircuts.
They embody years of generosity, community pride, and a commitment to investing in the next generation.
In a world where acts of kindness often go unnoticed, King Kuts Barber Shop stands as a reminder that giving back doesn’t always require a large donation. Sometimes, all it takes is a pair of clippers, a caring heart, and a willingness to serve.
For more than two decades, King Kuts Barber Shop has done just that.
On behalf of the students, families, and the San Benito CISD After School Program, thank you to Xavier, Sergio, and every barber who has volunteered their time over the years.
Your generosity has a lasting impact on our schools, our community, and the lives of countless children.
Some barbers give haircuts; King Kuts gave confidence, hope, and memories that will last a lifetime.