Single mom appreciates any help

Nettie is not particular about what gift givers select for her 5-year-old son, Jacob. "He's a bright kid and loves Spider-Man," she said.

The single mom just moved here and is trying to start a new life away from the child's abusive father. Mother and son relocated with little more than the clothes on their backs. Jacob has a few toys, but his mother hopes that any new ones he gets will help make a fresh start with new memories. Her hopes include possibly attending the university once she gets back on her feet.

Warm clothing especially helpful

Coats for her children are not in the budget for Amy this year. The single mom of a 10-year-old girl, Naisha, and 11-year-old boy, Elijah, Amy finds it challenging to pay bills and buy clothes, school supplies and toys for her children. Her car has been giving her trouble and put her behind on some bills. She needs the vehicle to get back and forth to work. It seems that every repair bill has been more than $100, and getting any extra cash for the holidays is not possible.

Naisha likes Bratz toys. Her coat size is 12.

Elijah loves wrestling, but cars, sports and electronic games are also things that interest him. His coat size is 14/16.

Gloves, scarves or hats are other gift suggestions.

Empty space under the tree

Demario, 11, has a lot of interests but is mainly into sports, his mother said. A football or a basketball are good gifts for him. But posters of sports, such as wrestling, also would make his Christmas a happy one. Connect Four or other board games and a sleeping bag for when he spends the night at a friend's house are also good suggestions. Books, puzzles, colored pencils and Leap Pad games are also on his list.

His sister, Tonya, is 8. She would also like a sleeping bag, board games, books, colored pencils and Leap Pad games appropriate for her age. Her interests include Bratz, bracelets and Barbies. Her mother, Emma, said she would also like a kitchen set and, in particular, a checker game.

Emma is happy her two children play nicely together but is worried there will be nothing under the Christmas tree this year.

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

Those who wish to donate cash or a check should make it payable to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702.