The annual Covington Storehouse Back to School barbecue was staged last Saturday, mixing free food and raffles with free support for children as they get ready for the start next week of the new school year.

The Storehouse, a partnership of 10 Covington churches, provided free clothing, haircuts, school supplies and backpacks for students. The supplies were donated or purchased by ortanizers at deep reductions. The latter included 50 percent off on backpacks via Fred Meyer, said Kevin Holland, pastor of Covington Christian Fellowship.

Eight new bicycles were raffled as part of the seventh annual event. It includes contributions of goods, services and personal participation of community groups in tandem with the churches.