Washburn’s Organization Mondiale pour L’Education Prescolare’ teamed up with the local Toys for Tots Nov. 11 and 12 to bring toys to needy children.

As part of that collaboration, three baskets were offered as prizes people could win through donations to Toys for Tots. To enter to win a basket participants donated either cash or toys. One dollar equaled one entry, $10 netted 12 entries, and toys earned tickets based on the price of gift, eight entries for a $5 toy and 15 for a $10 trinket.

There was a beauty basket, one for holiday survival, and a WU-themed basket, which was given away at the end of the volleyball game on Nov. 13.  Donations for the gift baskets came from local businesses.

OMEP is a world organization for childhood education, and is in its second year as an organization at Washburn. This is the first year the organization teamed up with Toys for Tots for this event. OMEP member, Ashley Ogden, helped organize the Toys for Tots event.

“Toys For Tots and OMEP are a perfect combination because we’re both striving to help children, both locally and worldwide.” said Ogden.

Amelia Osborn, treasurer of OMEP is planning a trip to Jamaica for two weeks as part of her transformational experience.

“Last year, OMEP donated $100 to students in Jamaica for school supplies,” said Osborn.

Based on the success of the drawing from the volleyball game, OMEP may keep its Toys For Tots donations going for another week. Toys can be dropped off at drop boxes in the Union.

OMEP is also encouraging the Washburn community to participate in Kansas Reads Week, Nov. 16 to 20. Kansas Reads Week is funded by the State of Kansas, and encourages everyone to read to preschoolers or kindergartners. This year’s featured book is “Wiggles.”