The Christmas for the Elderly program is intended to help seniors who typically don't have a family, lack basic supplies and can't spend money to treat themselves to a Christmas.

Donations can be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian office at 301 Broadway and should include the identifying letter of their recipient.

To donate cash or a check, make it payable to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702.

Terminal cancer patient needs Christmas help

For a person who is ill, it can be depressing to endure endless doctor visits and trips to the pharmacy while wondering how bills will get paid.

Ms. Q is experiencing just that.

Cancer has left her less independent than she'd like to be. Her daughter has to help care for her. Ms. Q continues to live alone on her Social Security check. Her diagnosis is terminal, and this may be her last Christmas.

She needs a bathrobe, pajamas, house shoes, blankets or a comforter, full-size sheets, towels, a coat and gloves. Ms. Q is a size 9 in shoes, medium in other clothes, size 7 to 8 pants.

Woman with spina bifida wants self-sufficiancy

Ms. S does not believe she lives alone. Two parakeets are her beloved companions. She would appreciate parakeet food for them, because her budget is already stretched. Ms. S couldn't do without them.

Her health problems include spina bifida, which confines her to a wheelchair, arthritis and a limited mental capacity.

Ms. S's caregivers compiled a list that would help her remain self-sufficient. Ms. S could also use pots and pans, a coffee pot, twin sheets, a comforter, size 42 sports bra, extralarge bathrobe, pajamas, pants, tops, underwear and large shoes or house shoes.

Caring for son adds to elderly woman's load

Ms. R lives at home with her disabled son, whom she cares for. Her health problems include high blood pressure, anxiety and depression. Her only source of income is Social Security. Ms. R would love some soft pajamas or sweats, gloves, queen-size sheets or a comforter, size 8 1/2 tennis shoes and an extralarge coat. Top size is large; pants are extralarge. Any brand of dog food for her dog is also on her wish list.