MR. F WOULD WELCOME FOOD ITEMS, CLOTHES

Over the past 10 years, Mr. F has become quite an accomplished cook -- out of necessity.

A diabetic, Mr. F is on a specially designed diet. As long as he sticks to the prescribed diet, Mr. F doesn't need insulin.

Ten years ago Mr. F's wife died, leaving him alone. He decided it was time he learned to cook.

But with his limited Social Security income, Mr. F has difficulty affording the foods he needs to eat. He has become quite creative in finding ways to make his dollars stretch, but they only go so far.

Equal sweetener, for example, is a luxury he often does without. Mr. F loves to sprinkle a little on his cereal each morning. But often he can't afford to buy it.

He would enjoy a box of Equal along with a fruit basket, canned foods or a gift certificate for groceries.

It has been years since Mr. F purchased any new clothing, and his closet is almost bare. While Mr. F doesn't complain, nurses have noted a list of items he is in need of: flannel shirts, size 16; one-pocket T-shirts, size large; socks, size 9-11; gloves; boxer shorts with snap tops, size 30-34; bib overalls, 40 by 30; tennis shoes, size 9; a hooded sweatshirt or quilted shirt coat.

Mr. F's eyesight is failing, but he loves to listen to music, especially country music. Mr. F owns a small cassette tape player and would enjoy some brand-new music to listen to.

Christmas for the Elderly is a joint project of the Southeast Missourian and the Cape Girardeau County Health Department.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway, or the Health Department, 1121 Linden.

Gifts or monetary donations may be mailed to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0699.

For more information, call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.