An annual event held to collect items for the country’s troops in Polk County continues in its sixth year.

Singing for the Soldiers will be held at Sunny View Elementary School Friday, Jan. 11 at 6 p.m.

The event features one of southern gospel music’s top artists Mike Upright. Upright has had more than 20 top 40 singles in his career. He is most known for the songs, “But for the blood,” “Winner either way,” “The Gate,” “When I Lay My Isaac Down” and “The great physicians.”

Also performing on stage will be Saluda-based bluegrass gospel group, the Green River Boys, and Sunny View’s own Soldiers for the Cross.

For admission, attendees are asked to bring items such as black knit caps, toothpaste, deodorants, beef jerky, white athletic socks and other care package items to be sent to troops overseas.

Monetary donations of any size are also accepted to help pay for shipping costs as well as purchasing other items.

If unable to attend, items may be dropped off at WJFJ radio station located on Courthouse Street in Columbus. The school is located right off Hwy. 9 between Mill Spring and Lake Lure.

For more information, call 828-894-5858.