Jaycee Christmas Projects: In the Spirit of the Season

For the past six years, the Jaycee Toybox has become an integral part of my family's holiday season. As I approach year seven as the chairperson for the project, the enthusiasm and passion continues to thrive and excitement fills my home as planning begins.

The Jaycees are gearing up for another successful drive and it is only possible with the support of this wonderful community. For 37 years, we have delivered joy to children across the City of Cape with toys from Santa. Imagine the surprise and pleasure on the faces of these children when Santa shows up on their doorstep with a bag of toys and smiles to go around. The relief on the faces of the moms and dads is evident, as if the weight of the world has been lifted off their shoulders. They rest easy knowing that their child can share with their classmates, upon return from Christmas break, the gifts they received under the tree.

I challenge your family this year to get involved, reach out to others in the spirit of the season with toy or monetary donations. Businesses across the community will be placing drop boxes in their establishments the week prior to the Thanksgiving Holiday and toy or monetary donations are also accepted at the Southeast Missourian. A detailed list will be published in the paper later this month.

In addition to the Toybox, the Jaycees will continue to support the seniors in our community who struggle financially with our Christmas for the Elderly Program. Nominated by The Department of Health and Senior Services, individuals receive many basic needs to help make life a little easier. Donations for the Christmas for the Elderly are accepted at the Southeast Missourian from the week prior to Thanksgiving until Christmas.

The joy of helping those old and young alike is the true meaning of the holiday season. Thank you for your continued support of the Jaycee Christmas Projects!