Toybox support

With only five shopping days until Christmas, many individuals in Southeast Missouri are scurrying to purchase last minute gifts. But as you finalize your Christmas list, consider supporting the Toybox program.

The Jaycees and Southeast Missourian Toybox Program is still collecting toys for the city's less fortunate children.

Toybox volunteers will visit four hundred families starting today to deliver donated toys. Tracy Haggerty, an organizer for Toybox, said she expects 1,150 children to receive a toy through the program this week.

While this year's need is comparable to years past with just more than 400 applications received, Haggerty said donations are down this year.

Two successful fundraisers for the program -- Cape Girardeau BBQ Fest and the Jaycee Golf Tournament -- helped boost the Toybox budget this year. However, community support is still needed to help make this Christmas special for those in need.

Monetary donations can be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian. To see a list of all the toy drop-off locations, go to www.capejaycees.org.

Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers and supporters that help make Toybox possible. Your efforts will bring much joy to Cape Girardeau children this Christmas.