Two boys need educational toys

Michael and Malik, both 3, are at an age when the toys they play with also can teach them things. Michael likes learning numbers and the alphabet. He would like a musical guitar and remote-control car from Santa Claus.

Malik also likes remote-control cars and trucks and dinosaurs. He likes to put things together and stack blocks. Educational toys and games that would help with his motor skills would make ideal gifts.

Katie, 1, would like a doll and doll stroller to play with at home. She likes toys that she can push around, like a toy grocery cart or vacuum sweeper. A toy telephone that rings and a Sit & Spin were listed as ideal gifts as well.

Toybox is a joint program of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian. Children like Michael, Malik and Katie will receive holiday gifts from Toybox this year.

Donations of toys for both boys and girls are still needed for the 513 families who asked for assistance this Christmas.

Drop-off locations for new, unused toys are Southeast Missourian offices, AAA Travel Agency, First National Bank, Firstar Bank, Check Please, Bank of America, Sanders True Value, Bank of Missouri, Capaha Bank, Cingular Wireless, Union Planters Bank, Alliance Bank, Commerce Bank at the Cape LaCroix Road location only, Westfield Shoppingtown West Park and SunCom Wireless.

New toys must be delivered to the drop-off sites before Dec. 20, which is the night of delivery. Toys will be delivered between 6:30 and 9 p.m.

Tax-deductible contributions can be mailed to Toybox Trust, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.