Operation Easter Basket

Feb 16, 2026

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Mar 20, 2026

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We’re celebrating our incredible military children with an Easter Basket drive!

📅 Now – March 20, 2026

  • Why Support: In honor of Military Children, we’re collecting Easter Baskets to be awarded at our March 28 Eggstravaganza. Let’s show our community spirit and bring a huge smile to a child’s face.
  • An Extra Bonus: Feeling competitive? We’re giving prizes for the most “eggcellent” individual and team baskets!
  • How to Support: Drop off your basket creations at the FMWR Columbus Administrative Office by March 20.

TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR EASTER BASKET

Let’s get your basket to the right little one! As you’re gathering your goodies, please design your basket for one of our three age groups: 0-3, 4-7, or 8-12.

When you drop off, we’ll just ask for a quick estimate of its value for our records.

Have fun and get as creative as you want! If you’re stumped, we’ve got some fun ideas below to get you started.

  • Ideas for Ages 0-3: Soft plush animals (like bunnies or chicks), board books with bright colors and textures, stacking rings, large puzzle blocks, bath toys, a bunny-themed sippy cup, a set of soft-tipped spoons. Safety considerations: Ensure that all toys are free of small parts that could be detached and become a choking hazard. Instead of traditional plastic grass, which can be a choking hazard, it is safer to use tissue paper or a soft blanket as a basket filler. Candy should be avoided for this age group.
  • Ideas for Ages 4-7: Art supplies (like crayons, markers, and coloring books), play-doh, sticker books, age-appropriate puzzles, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, balls, books, child-size gardening supplies, candy and snacks.
  • Ideas for Ages 8-12: Art sets, science experiment kits, craft kits (like DIY jewelry or slime), books, puzzles, portable speakers, family games or card games, reusable water bottle, a cool notebook and pens, gift cards, candy and snacks.
  • Theme ideas: The “Little Artist” Basket, The “Future Gardener” Basket, The “Sports Enthusiast” Basket, The “Junior Chef” Basket, The “Mad Scientist” Basket, The “Movie Marathon” Basket, The “Spa Day” Basket, The “Day at the Beach” Basket, The “Dinosaur Discovery” Basket, The “Superhero in Training” Basket, The “Bookworm’s” Basket, The “Ultimate Gamer” Basket

Contact Information

Family Programs

Email –

[email protected]

Phone –

(614) 692-7217

Website –

https://www.defensemwr.com/columbus/programs/family-programs