Toybox

Mark, 2, is ready for toys to help him learn ABC's, numbers or how things fit, like puzzles. Board books or talking books are also ideal when it comes to amusing himself while his 6-month-old little brother, Matthew, takes a nap or his mom is giving him a bath. Matthew likes anything that lights up and makes noise. Infant toys like activity gyms that challenge an infant to make discoveries will help him keep up with his older brother.

Christmas for the Elderly

Ms. P, a 70-year-old widow who lives alone, finds companionship in the outdoor cats and one dog she calls her own. She struggles to pay her winter gas bill and still buy groceries. Ms. P is paralyzed from the waist down and has high blood pressure. Her pets help to relieve everyday stress, so dry cat food would help her to continue caring for them. Gift certificates to Schnucks or Wal-Mart would be put to good use, and a cordless phone would help avoid missing phone calls because of the difficulty in getting around in a wheelchair. Other ideas include a long-sleeve shirt that buttons up the front, lightweight sweat shirt, flannel nightgowns, all in extra large; wash cloths and toiletries; stamps and envelopes; knee socks without elastic tops; bedroom slippers in a size 8 that are not soft sided and have a back to them.

Donations can be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian offices. Monetary donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.