CHRISTMAS FOR THE ELDERLY A TRADITION

Ten years ago, the Cape Girardeau Health Department and the Southeast Missourian newspaper teamed up to provide a cheerful holiday greeting and a few gifts to needy elderly in the community.

A decade later, the program is bigger than ever but still serving the same goal: A small remembrance can brighten the life of a person who might otherwise go unnoticed at Christmas.

From now until Dec. 13, the Southeast Missourian will highlight cases of senior citizens whose needs could be met with a donation from an individual, church or civic group. The identities of those featured in the newspaper are confidential.

Carolyn Sarff, a nurse with the health department who helps coordinate the program, explained that senior citizens often choose between buying food or medicine. Providing food or assistance for medical bills could relieve some of the anxiety that comes with such a decision. At the same time a simple gift, like a fruit basket or a small Christmas decoration, could help these older neighbors celebrate the holiday.

The elderly who benefit from the program are referred from various agencies throughout the year. When social security benefits, Medicare and Medicaid fail to cover many of the medical needs of senior citizens, perhaps a gift certificate to a preferred pharmacy will.

Kim McDowell, coordinator of the project for the Southeast Missourian, said Christmas for the Elderly touches the hearts of many in the community. "Everyone knows an elderly person who doesn't have much family and doesn't have much income," she said. "One way we can reach out is by contributing to Christmas for the Elderly."

The program was designed 10 years ago to provide a few Christmas gifts but has grown over the years. Thousands of dollars are collected each year, which means more elderly people receive assistance. The first priority is providing Christmas cheer, but money is used throughout the year to help with medical bills, food, or unexpected expenses.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian at 301 Broadway or the Cape Girardeau County Health Department, 1121 Linden.

Gifts or financial donations may be mailed to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702-0699. For more information call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.