Families hope for children's bright Christmas

In its 33rd year, Toybox, sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian, will deliver toys to children this holiday season. Tax-deductible monetary donations can be mailed to Toybox Trust, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, 63702-0004

Working family tries hard to stay on top

Janell works an evening job while her boyfriend works during the day. It keeps the family from having to pay for day care costs that would otherwise be needed for two daughters, ages 11 months and 2 years old, and their 6-year-old son. Janell had two jobs until recently, when she had to give one up because it was too physically draining. She took the job because they got behind on their bills. "It's been kind of hard without that income," she said.

The oldest child, Demetrius, is afraid of teddy bears so Janell asked that any toys or clothes not be related to or have images of teddy bears on them.

Sensitive to her children's development, Janell said, "I want my children to learn." Requests for interactive learning toys would be most appreciated for 2-year-old Angel and Demetrius. Alma, the youngest, is in need of clothing size 12 months and up.

Mom would like children to have good memories

Clint and Marcie feel blessed they have a home to all live in together this year. When Clint lost his job over a year ago, the family had to split up. Marcie and the children lived with her aunt while Clint stayed with a friend. There just wasn't enough room for them to all stay together. Recently their 4-year-old son's bike was stolen off the property. "We can't afford to replace it. It would mean so much to David if he got a new one," Marcie said. Board games are also on his list.

David's older brother, 8-year-old Darryl, likes cars, robots and Spider-Man. His mom said he has a reading problem, so books to practice reading would be especially appreciated. "He needs to read about what he likes so he wants to do it," she said.

Their brother, Bryan, 6, loves to write, collect Yu-Gi-Oh cards and play games.

"We're working hard keeping up with day-to-day expenses. If we could get some help for the children to have a good Christmas it would mean a lot," Marcie said.

Dolls and infant supplies would help this family

Ayeesha, a single mother, is doing the best she can to provide for her two children. Allen, only 4 months old, is starting to teethe and needs toys to relieve the discomfort. "I don't have any extra money at all and he needs a coat, shoes, clothes, even diapers," said the young mother. Feeling overwhelmed with the baby's father's absence, Ayeesha could really use some support to believe she can succeed at caring for her children without him.

Most importantly, the children both need car seats.

Jade, 14 months old, also needs diapers, clothes, a coat, hat and shoes. She would love an Elmo doll, Barbie or V-Tech learning toys, Ayeesha said.