Next Saturday will be a chance for children in need to get ready for school by collecting free school supplies at the sixth annual "Praise in the Park" back-to-school event, July 25, starting at 8 a.m. at 1400 Parker Rd.

Last year the event served roughly 700 kids by handing out bookbags and school supplies. This year, the goal is to serve 750 kids.

Although organizers are still collecting supplies and sponsorships, "I feel confident we'll have what we need," said Father's Heart Ministries Director Mike Hutcheson, who organizes the effort in partnership with more than 20 other institutions and groups.

"It's a tremendous event," said Hutcheson. "It's always amazing to see how those provisions come when people come together in unity to say, ‘we want to do something good for the people of this community.'"

Basic school supplies are still needed, such as crayons, glue, pencil paper, spiral notebooks, folders, binders, scissors, pencil boxes, color pencils, and markers. Students can also be sponsored at $10 a child.

Hutcheson will be at 1400 Parker Rd. Thursday and Friday, from 1 - 5 p.m. if people want to drop off supplies. Donations can also be mailed to P.O. Box 80603, Conyers 30013.

For more information on how to help, contact Hutcheson at 770-652-9579 or at mikehutcheston@yahoo.com.