Later this month, Providence Christian School is hosting the Boots and Blue Jeans BBQ Bash, an annual fund-raiser to help provide children from lower income families with scholarships to the school.

Besides supporting students through scholarships, proceeds from the bash help fund technology, reading and art, sports and music programs in the Cape Coral school.

The largest annual fund-raiser for the school, the bash will be held April 24 at the Cape Coral Yacht Club.

The school has hosted the auction fund-raisers for approximately 15 years, said coordinator Julie Mezzatesta. In years past the events were more formal, while this year the auction will be centered around a barbecue.

"We used to do it real fancy, but this year with the economic recession we have made it a barbecue where people will feel more comfortable," she said.

Last year, more than 160 businesses donated gift certificates and items for a silent and live auction, and about 250 residents attended. This year the school is hoping to draw between 300 and 350 people, said Mezzatesta.

The silent auction will feature a number of gift baskets and certificates, while the live auction has vacation packages, houses and weekend trips.

She said projects by children are also up for sale at the auction, and in most cases parents will bid.

Sponsorships for the auction are available that range from $100-$2,500.

Tickets for the auction are $18 per person and can be purchased at Providence Christian School.

For more information on tickets or sponsorships, call the school at 549-8024.