Those wishing to contribute to individual profiles already published should indicate the recipient's name, or cash and check donations should be made payable to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702. The address is the same for Christmas for the Elderly, just change the "payable to" line.

Young mother with many problems is unable to provide for infant daughter

Ginnie, a foster parent in temporary custody of 7-month-old Laura, answered Toybox application questions for Laura's mother, who is incarcerated. Charged with child neglect, among other things, the mother is a teenager who was in the wrong place at the wrong time, according to Ginnie. Although the young mother attempted to protect the child by securing her in a stroller while in a vehicle, she was charged with neglect for failure to have the baby in a car seat.

Ginnie said Laura needs diapers, pajamas, infant T-shirts, a new blanket, baby soap and shoes or winter boots suitable for her age. She is in a 12-month size. Her mother added toys and a bouncer to the list.

"She loves Teddies," said Ginnie.

It seems confusion about payment for court costs is why this teenage mother had a warrant out for her arrest. She receives grief counseling from the Community Counseling Center after her adoptive mother and aunt she was close to died.

Ginnie also cares for her son, who recently had a nervous breakdown.

Any help for the infant born into a difficult situation would be appreciated.

Five children need toys and clothes

Roberta has been looking for work close to home. Her problem is that she has no transportation. With five children living under her roof, money is tight.

"Family games we could all play and share would be a great gift," Roberta said.

The Christmas presents she's asking for are basic items. Even though clothes can be handed down, keeping five children dressed is a challenge.

Candy, 12, is into music, and a CD player would be a really special Christmas gift for her. Her size is extra large in tops; 16 to 18 in pants; shoe size 11.

Michael, 10, likes learning games; a basketball or football would make him especially happy. He is size 12 to 14 in shirts; size 10 husky pants.

Kenneth, 8, wears size 12 to 14 shirts. "He really likes Spider-Man," said his mom.

Jeremy is a size 6T. This 5-year-old is particularly interested in being creative. Play-Doh, crayons, coloring books or art kits would be special to him at Christmas.

The youngest member of the family, Anita, two years old, wants a bike. She wears a 5T, and her mom said she loves "Dora the Explorer."