ONE SOCIAL SECURITY CHECK DOESN'T GO FAR

Mr. and Mrs. I share their meager housing with their small Pekingnese. They have no children or other relatives, so it is up to them to make sure everyone -- including the dog -- is kept full and fed.

That is hard to do when the couple's only income is Mr. I's Social Security check.

Imagine trying to purchase food, underwear and other clothing, toilet paper, toiletries and dog food on about $300 a month. Add insulin and needles for Mr. I and other medication for Mrs. I. It is impossible.

Mrs. I would like medium-size dusters with snap closures, cotton underwear, size 10, and size 9 women's slippers for Christmas this year. She would also like brightly colored bathroom towel sets, microwavable storage containers, and hospital bed linens to make her house nicer and more comfortable for her and her husband.

Mr. I would like a large sweatsuit in a solid color, BD insulin syringes, a Bible with large print, and maybe some perfume for his wife for Christmas.

The couple would like a dog bed, small Kibble treats and canned dog food, and carpet deodorizer for their pet, which they treat like a child.

Christmas for the Elderly provides people with special requests that many take for granted. Food, toiletries, simple paper products, taxi coupons and money for medications are just a few of the donations that would help make an elderly person's entire year easier.

The program, in its 12th year, is co-sponsored by Cape Girardeau County Health Department and the Southeast Missourian.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian or the Cape Girardeau County Health Center through Dec. 13.

Cash contributions, taxi coupons, paper products and grocery store gift certificates are always needed and may help elderly people all year long.

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