Sponsors are being sought for the annual Back 2 School Block Party, which provides school supplies to needy students.

In Newton County, over 68 percent of the nearly 20,000 students enrolled in the school system receive free and reduced lunches. Several of the system's schools are Title I schools, meaning that the majority of students are living at or below the poverty level. The annual block party aims to alleviate some of the strain of getting students ready for school by providing supplies.

The party will be held on Newton Drive this year, moving from its traditional spot on the square. This will give attendees the opportunity to be on the Newton County Board of Education campus. Also this year two board members, Jeffrey Meadors (District 1) and Shakila Henderson-Baker (District 3), are co-chairs of the event.

Sponsors are needed not only for money and supplies, but also to host information tables with interactive activities for the students, provide snacks and drinks, sponsor inflatables, face painting or a DJ or to collect school supplies.

The application deadline for those who wish to host a table or sponsor an event is July 17. For those wishing to drop off supplies, they can be taken to Main Street Covington at 2104 Washington Street.

The block party will take place from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. on July 24 between Anderson and Mill streets.