Fulfilling simple requests would make for a merry Christmas

Two older children, Ronnie and Haleigh, have simple requests for Christmas gifts. Ronnie wants some remote controlled cars and Matchbox cars. He'd also like a portable CD player and headphones.

Haleigh is much more feminine and wants makeup, Barbie dolls and some notebooks and pens for writing. A diary would be a good gift for this 10-year-old, too.

The youngest child in this family, 5-month-old Breyden, needs toys that rattle, make noise or are good for his development. He also likes Winnie-the-Pooh toys and stuffed animals.

Christmas for the Elderly

Mrs. D is a caretaker for her husband, who has multiple health complications. His Medicaid assistance pays most of the bills, but there are charges for hospital stays and medications. He was recently released from a nursing home.

While her husband is away for dialysis treatment, Mrs. D is often alone. She has a history of falls and stroke. She would like help from Lifeline, a service that would let her call for help should she ever need it. There is a $55 installation fee and a $25 monthly charge for the service, so this couple can't really afford that help.

Mrs. D needs some pill boxes so that she can separate her medicines by the day or time she's supposed to take them. She also wants stamps, personal hygiene items and some clothing. She would like a large sweatshirt or T-shirt. Gift certificates to the pharmacy or discount stores also would be helpful.

Donations are being accepted at the newspaper offices and locations throughout town. Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to either program at P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702-0004.