Jayhawks Enjoy Holiday Shopping For Local Families

Dec. 15, 2005

LAWRENCE, Kan. –

The Kansas men’s basketball team took a break from finals week Thursday night to do some holiday shopping for more than 15 local families. With the help of private donations and the local Salvation Army, the Jayhawks, coaching staff, family and friends scoured a local Wal Mart for the families’ “Wish List” gifts.

Gifts ranged from Care Bear movies to slippers to Crock Pots as the Jayhawks and friends carefully chose the gifts for the less fortunate.

“We are all very blessed and want nothing more than to share our blessings with those in need,” head coach Bill Self said. “Not only do the gifts benefit these families, but our guys really get alot out of this project and it helps them truly understand the meaning of giving.”

Self helped raise the money through speaking engagements and other local donations. In all, the money bought gifts for more than 56 people.