DEADLINE FOR DONATIONS TO TOYBOX TODAY

Attention, last-minute Toybox shoppers: Today is the last day for gifts to be donated to this year's campaign. On Thursday toys will be delivered to the children.

Toys delivered today can still be used to help brighten the holiday for a needy child.

This year's campaign, like each in the past, will be a success, organizers predict. Residents of the community have given enough toys and money to ensure that each child receives a gift. In addition, many warm coats, hats and mittens will be provided.

A lot of work remains before Thursday's delivery of toys by a team of Santa Clauses and elves. Volunteers say all the work is worth it to bring joy to children this Christmas season.

Toybox is sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian newspaper. The project is designed to make sure the city's neediest children have a happy holiday.

Donations of new, unwrapped toys are requested. Also, donations of new coats, mittens, hats and warm clothes are needed. Cash gifts can also be used to purchase specific items a child might need.

Gifts may be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway, West Park Mall, Capital Bank, AmeriFirst Bank, Farm and Home Savings Association, Gulliver's Travel Agency and Perry Travel Center.

For more information, call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.