DISABILITY DOESN'T GO FAR ENOUGH

Mr. G, 64, is just beginning to attend to some of the necessities he enjoyed before he went on disability income.

Until just a few weeks ago he didn't even have running water in his mobile home.

Through government agencies that help senior citizens, however, Mr. G has found a way to get water. He is also expected to receive a hot-water heater for the winter.

But Mr. G still has plenty of other needs that could be taken care of by Christmas for the Elderly, a joint project of the Cape Girardeau County Health Department and Southeast Missourian.

Mr. G is still trying to find a used refrigerator that would fit in his mobile home.

Since he must rely solely on disability checks, Mr. G often goes without a balanced diet. His son, who is on a limited income, tries to help out on occasion. But his help has been sporadic.

Canned goods and gift certificates for food would help stretch Mr. G's disability checks.

Some Christmas decorations or perhaps a small tree would also brighten up his surroundings and his life during the holidays.

Paper products such as towels, napkins and toilet paper are always needed by underprivileged senior citizens. So are fruit baskets and men's and women's toiletry items such as after-shave lotion, cologne and perfume.

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

Gifts or monetary 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.