Couple with four children need help through rough spot

Marcia and her family have hit a rough spot this past year. Money has been tight, and while things are looking up a little, it won't be enough to give the four children in the family a merry Christmas.

The two youngest are twins, age 2, who have just discovered baby dolls.

"They try to feed everything with baby bottles," Marcia said. "They really love that kind of stuff."

The two little girls, Sharon and Susan, would like to have baby dolls for Christmas, with accessories. They also like books, DVDs and other learning toys.

Four-year-old Mike likes cars, Marcia said.

"He wants a remote-controlled car without strings," she said. "He's been telling me that for months."

Mike also likes Legos, all things Spider-Man, handheld games and books.

The oldest boy, Tim, is 12. He likes Game Boys and accessories for his bicycle. Marcia said Tim would also appreciate Pokemon items, DVDs and games.

Marcia just recently got a job and says she won't get a paycheck soon enough to allow for Christmas shopping. Her husband is temporarily unemployed, but he does take care of the children during the day while Marcia is at work. Three of the four children are not yet in school.

"My husband does the best he can," Marcia said. "It's been hard on him."

The family has had a rough year, but Marcia says they're looking ahead to better times.

"You can always bounce back," she said. " It's just the way it is."

For those interested in contributing to the Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly campaigns, new toys and gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian office or area locations. Cash contributions are also welcome. All contributions are tax-deductible and may be mailed separately to Toybox Trust, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004, or Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.