Pastor Timothy Williams and the congregation at Opp’s Evangelist Temple Church of God in Christ will hold a back to school bash today, July 28, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the church located at 601 Gavin Street.

Williams said this is the fourth year the church has sponsored the event.

“We bring in motivational speakers to show the students that they can excel,” he said. “We have had former NFL players like James Logan speak. This year, we have Sen. Quinton Ross, D-Montgomery, coming to motivate and reach them. We want them to realize that you don’t have to push drugs. You can excel.”

Williams said each year they have more than 200 children come to hear the message, get a free lunch and free school supplies.

“We have kids from Opp and all over Covington County come,” he said. “We have kids from Dozier, Goshen, Florala and even parts of Florida who need our help.”