Residents in the Ann Street are gearing up to party with a purpose Saturday.

Councilwoman Sherry Guidry is spearheading an effort to get neighbors invested in keeping their community clean by organizing a day of fun with clean up efforts as its focus.

“The Tight and Right Clean Up Initiative is simply neighbors helping neighbors,” Guidry said. “We have people from all over Acadiana that’s coming. Different coalitions, UL students, nonprofit organizations, churches, elementary students and families from other parts of New Iberia.”

Poochie Livingston, who lives on Ann Street community, said he believes Saturday’s efforts will motivate the neighborhood to get involved.

 “If you see some people cleaning up their neighborhoods, it’s going to be real nice,” he said. “Summer is coming, the grass is going to be green and the neighborhood is going to be clean.” 

Registration for the event begins at 10 a.m. Clean up will take place from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

While people are working there will be music, food, drinks, fun jumps, yard prizes and certificates for participants.  

Guidry said it’s all being done to foster community pride.

 “We need to get back to the basics and the basics is we’re all family, we’re one community and we have to love on one another,” she said.

Guidry said once momentum is built with keeping the community clean, economic benefits may be a result.

“If within miles on both sides of this (Anne Street site) there is business it’s possible. If you can increase economic development with clean neighborhoods you’re bringing in local dollars.” Guidry said. 

The Tight and Right Clean Up Block Party will start on Ann Street, across from the Masonic Hall near the tents.