Mr. P needs cat food, stamps, cleaning supplies

Mr. P nearly lives the life of a hermit. He rarely socializes with others and has no family here. He lives alone except for his two pet cats.

He was raised by elderly parents and has been "lost" since their deaths.

He likes to pay his own way, but his Social Security check rarely covers all his medical expense and monthly bills. He suffers from depression and cardiovascular problems.

A small gift from Christmas for the Elderly, a joint program of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian that provides holiday gifts to needy senior citizens in the community, could brighten his day.

The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, Missouri Division of Senior Services and Hoover Eldercare Center refer clients to the program, which relies on donations.

Mr. P has asked for stamps, cat food and bath tissue. He also needs cleaning supplies and toiletries.

Gifts like paper goods and toiletry items, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoos, soap and pet foods are needed to distribute to all Christmas for the Elderly recipients.

Fruit baskets, stamps or gift certificates at discount and grocery stores also would be helpful.

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

The Southeast Missourian will collect gifts for Christmas for the Elderly at its Cape Girardeau and Jackson offices.

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