The Back to School Clothing Drive is accepting sponsorships for the upcoming distribution that will help outfit more than 5,000 Title I students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

The New Clothes = New Beginnings distribution event will take place in the Grand Canyon University Arena from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, Monday-Thursday, July 18-21.

In addition to the distribution effort, AT Still University will provide dental checkups and fluoride rinses to all children in attendance, and St. Mary’s Food Bank will provide each child with a lunch.

 The event also attracts more than 2,500 volunteers to serve children from 152 schools in 40 districts, according to event organizers.

Sponsorship opportunities include:

• Corporate Day: $25,000
• Distribution Department Sponsorships: $15,000
• Learning Zone or Backpack Stuffing Sponsorships: $7,500
• Volunteer Break Room Sponsorship: $5,000
• School or District Sponsorships: $3,000
• Individual and Family Sponsorships: $400 or $800

 "After a two-year hiatus from the on-site distribution, we’re fully ready for the in-person return of the event,” said Karl Gentles, Back to School Clothing Drive executive director.

“Every year, we are incredibly grateful and overwhelmed by the widespread support we receive from the community, support that is so vital in ensuring we are able to provide these children with essentials so that they can focus on their education.  We hope to see even more sponsors join us this year.”

 Each child receives two polo shirts, two pairs of shorts, a backpack filled with school supplies, a pair of sneakers, three pairs of socks and underwear, a belt, a dental hygiene kit, handmade accessories and books.

The retail value of the clothing and supplies each child receives is valued at $350.  Back to School Clothing Drive distributes $1.75 million worth of clothing and supplies every year, according to organizers.

 All students participating in the New Clothes = New Beginnings event have been pre-registered by their schools based on need. Unregistered children will not be admitted to the event.  

Parents are advised to check with their children’s schools about how to participate in next year’s event.

 For more information about the Back to School Clothing Drive and available sponsorship opportunities, visit www.backtoschoolclothingdrive.com or call 602-920-1808.