Mother needs help for three children; Mrs. J would like dress slacks

Mom's hours are cut back

Mom is a home health-care worker, but the client list has been cut back. Dad's income pays for the bills. They may take the children out for a pizza once a month if there is something left after the bills are paid. Their three children won't have presents this year without your help. Soccer balls, soccer or basketball games, board games and sports books are favorites for the 11-year-old. The 9-year-old likes Star Wars, Legos and Lincoln Logs but really wants a skateboard, likes UNO, books and cars. The 7-year-old girl loves stuffed animals, "High School Musical" Barbie and a kitchen set. Bring new toys to any of the Toybox locations, including the Southeast Missourian. Or you can make a monetary donation to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702.

Mrs. J lives independently on low income

Mrs. J. lives by herself with a little assistance from her daughter. She is not asking for a lot but would appreciate a few things. She would like two pairs of size 16 dress slacks in a dark color with elastic waist band, some paper towels and toilet paper, perfume and a Wal-Mart gift card to buy groceries for a special Christmas meal. People can help Mrs. J and other needy elderly people in the area, by buying these needed items, including personal grooming and cleaning supplies, grocery gift cards and delivering to The Southeast Missourian. Or make a monetary donation to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702. All elderly served are living independently on limited incomes with few, if any family members.