Children shop at thrift store; elderly woman awaits surgery

Children shop at thrift store

Dad's income barely pays the bills – rent, utilities, car for work, food. But Mom makes sure there is about $10 left each month to share with her daughters. They go shopping at the Safe House for Women Thrift Store, where there are a variety of things the children can buy. There is no money for Christmas presents this year. The 10-year-old daughter likes to read books like Harry Potter, paints, colors and likes any kind of school supplies. The 9-year-old is "fierce about Hannah Montana" and likes baby dolls and coloring. You can help make this Christmas a happy time to remember. Bring new toys to any of the Toybox locations, including the Southeast Missourian. Monetary donations may be made to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702. For all of our needy Toybox families here are some popular requests: board games, race cars, trucks, dolls, learning toys, puzzles, books, balls, drawing materials and Hannah Montana, Spider-Man, Dora the Explorer, Indiana Jones and 'High School Musical' items.

Elderly woman waiting for surgery

Mrs. G has a health condition and is waiting for surgery. Her only source of income is her Social Security benefits that take care of her bills. But there is nothing extra for her or her dog. She would appreciate a coat with hood size 14, housecoat and gowns size large, four soft pillows and a full-size sheet set. She wears large tops, size 8 underwear, size 8 1/2 boots and size 36C bra. She would like something for her dog, small kibble in small, easy-to-handle bags and some toys for her furry friend. You can help Mrs. G and other needy elderly people in the area by buying these needed items, as well as personal grooming and cleaning supplies and grocery gift cards and delivering them to the Southeast Missourian. Monetary donations may be made to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702. All elderly served are living independently on limited incomes with few, if any, family members.