TRIO Student Support Services is collecting donations for The Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City.

Baby rattles, paint and paint brushes and nail polish are also on the children’s “wish list” provided by the hospital, said Matthew Wedel, computer science major and the student responsible for the project.

The Children’s Hospital volunteer services manager, Belinda Anderson said the hospital will not accept used toys or stuffed animals.

“Right now we’re really in need of new reading books for all ages, from infants to older teenagers,” she said.

“We are so appreciative of the community, the college students in Oklahoma City and the support we continue to receive on a daily basis,” Anderson said.

TRIO adviser Jermaine Peterson said Legos, sports balls, card games and more can be donated between now and November 7. All donations can be dropped off in the TRIO office located in the main building, room MB1T7, next to the Bursar office. The office is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“As citizens it’s really important for us to be mindful of giving back to the community so it’s really cool to see our students give back to others in need,” Peterson said.

The project is not exclusive to TRIO students and everyone is encouraged to make a donation, Wedel said. “This is a great opportunity to give the kids things they want and to let them know we’re thinking about them.”

In addition, students, staff and faculty can make a card for a child, Wedel said. “Paper and markers are available in the TRIO office along with guidelines provided by The Children’s Hospital.”

TRIO is a federally funded program designed to increase college retention and successfully assist students transfer to a four-year institution, Peterson said. The name TRIO refers to the original number of program initiatives it has encompassed which has since grown from three to eight.

For more information on other items accepted for donation contact Wedel at matthew.s.wedel@my.occc.edu.