Family needs educational books, toys for two boys

Educational toys are always on the holiday wish lists received through the Toybox program. And this year is no exception.

Chris, 8, would like some educational books and games that would help with his reading skills, his mother says on the family's application.

Any kind of electronic game or mini-computer would also be nice since he could practice up on math and reading.

His younger brother, 1 1/2 years old, would like some toys that teach him the alphabet and how to sort shapes.

The family is one of many who applied for assistance this Christmas in buying holiday gifts for their children. Toybox is a joint program of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian that provides gifts to needy children up to age 12.

In the first week of accepting applications, the program received 190 applications for help, said Lisa Seabaugh, a Jaycee member.

"We'll need lots of toys," she said.

Donations of new, unused toys are being collected at Southeast Missourian offices in Cape Girardeau and Jackson, AAA Travel Agency, First National Bank, First Missouri State, Bank of America, Sanders True Value, Bank of Missouri, Capaha Bank, Cingular Wireless, Union Planters Bank, Alliance Bank, Toys R Us, Commerce Bank, Westfield Shoppingtown West Park, First Missouri State Bank, U.S. Bank and Wehrenberg Theatres.

Applications for the Toybox program are being accepted through Dec. 6 at the Salvation Army office, 701 Good Hope. Applicants must provide a Social Security number for each child listed and proof of residence. Applications are accepted between 10 a.m. and noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Tax-deductible contributions can be mailed to Toybox Trust at P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.