A few needed items would brighten lonely holidays

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.

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

Lonely and without family

Ms. N has no friends or family who come to visit. Her son's recent death has made the alienation from her surviving children even worse. Ms. N's bouts with anxiety have made concentration difficult, and her arthritis has made writing impossible. Reading is something she is unable to enjoy.

Ms. N does have one friend and companion that is loyal -- her dog, Ellie. Toys and food for Ellie would help this elderly woman believe that people do care.

Ms. N lives alone, receiving Social Security. Some personal items that would make her Christmas brighter are extralarge sweats, bathrobe or pajamas; size 16 tall pants; large tops; size 10 work shoes for the yard or tennis shoes.

Money spent on medicine

Ms. O has high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis and has recently had eye surgery. The medications she needs cost more than $900 monthly, and her Medicare Part D has been used to the maximum.

Ms. O lives with her grandchildren to try to make ends meet.

Making Christmas merry for Ms. O could be accomplished easily. She would like some warm clothing, including house shoes in size 9 1/2 to 10, extralarge sweats, sweaters, tops or pants.

No transportation, family support

Mr. P lives alone in his home. He has difficulty getting to his doctor appointments without a vehicle. Mr. P suffers from high blood pressure and arthritis. The Social Security check he receives does not provide for any extras.

At Christmas a few personal items under the tree would help make his holiday happy, since he has no support from family members.

An extra large coat, boxers, shirt, sweats, bathrobe or pajamas are items Mr. P needs. Socks and T-shirts, also on the list, would also make Mr. P's Christmas a little brighter. Other items include 38 by 30 pants, size 9 1/2 shoes, large gloves, twin-sized sheets and a bedspread or blanket.