Gift would brighten man's holiday

Mr. B had some severe health problems but is now recovering well. He lives with his son and daughter-in-law in Cape Girardeau.

At 90, Mr. B doesn't really want much for the holiday, except to be remembered with a small gift. A fruit basket or small denomination gift certificate would certainly brighten his day.

The Cape Girardeau Jaycees are helping to organize the Christmas for the Elderly program this year to assure that the elderly population is cared for during the holidays.

The program, which marks its 17th anniversary, operates from referrals through the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, Missouri Division of Senior Services and Hoover Eldercare Center.

Gifts like paper goods and toiletry items, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoos, soap, and some pet foods are needed to distribute to Christmas for the Elderly clients. Fruit baskets, stamps or gift certificates at discount stores and grocery stores also would be helpful.

Dish towels, washcloths, towels and cleaning supplies are at the top of many senior's lists this year. Other necessities are sweat suits in a variety of sizes and colors, slippers, bath robes and underwear make good gifts.

The Southeast Missourian newspaper will collect gifts for Christmas for the Elderly at its Cape Girardeau and Jackson offices. The gifts will be delivered in mid-December.

Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.