Moms with health, vehicle repair costs need help for Christmas

Those wishing to contribute to individual profiles already published should indicate the recipient's name, or cash and check donations should be made payable to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702.

Christmas just not in the budget

Bridget, a single mom, became disabled a few years ago. Since then her health has worsened. Bridget receives no help for the children from her ex-husband. She feels bad that her disability check doesn't stretch far enough to provide gifts for her children.

"Getting the bills paid is hard enough," she said.

She has asked Toybox for help with Agatha's Christmas gifts. She has another daughter who is older and cannot apply for gifts because she exceeds the age limit.

Bridget's older daughter, Missy, was riding Agatha's bike recently and was hit. Thankfully Missy was OK, but the bike was beyond repair. Agatha would love a new bike. Maybe the two girls could share it.

It hurts Bridget that she cannot provide a new bike. "It's just more money than I could imagine to spend on one child at this time," she said.

Agatha, somewhat of a tomboy, likes skateboards and skates. Other suggestions are a bedspread, twin sheets or curtains in a Spider-Man or camouflage design. She also needs gloves, a scarf and sock cap. The "Cars" DVD is another suggestion. She likes to read, too.

Toybox is a blessing

Helen is pregnant with her third child. Although this single mom wishes she could find a job, it is difficult because it's not in the budget to repair her vehicle until she receives her income tax return.

"I asked for help from Toybox eight years ago and was so pleased. I couldn't believe the things they brought for my son. There were things I just couldn't afford, and it was so appreciated," she said.

Her oldest son, Robbie, 9, has never seen his father. Kenny, 2, has a dad who is in prison.

Kenny loves SpongeBob. He could use pants size 2T and shirts size 3T.

Robbie would like some action figures. He is a size 10 in clothes.

Helen has begun to collect items for her unborn child. She still doesn't know the sex. "I have nothing for this baby," she said. She had a baby bed, but in the process of moving, the screws for it became misplaced. Any contributions would be helpful so she can save up for the cost of a baby bed.