Parents with health problems, low energy could use help with children's Christmas gifts

Unforeseen health problem creates difficulty

"This is the first year we've ever done anything like this," said Kathy, a former stay-at-home mom of three.

Kathy and her husband, Todd's, financial situation could be anybody's.

While raising three children, the couple depended on Todd's average salary while Kathy stayed at home with the children and attended Southeast Missouri State University part time in hopes of becoming a better financial asset for her family in the future.

What they weren't expecting was for Todd to get sick enough to prevent him from working. What was worse was that they had no medical insurance. Kathy diligently searched for a full-time position and finally had to take a part-time position just to be able to provide necessities.

"We were so far behind I applied for a second job, too," she said.

Getting by meant maxing out credit cards and depleting their savings just to eat, manage a household and take care of day-to-day expenses. Paying bills was not an option. They piled up.

In the meantime, Kathy's part-time position developed into a full-time position and even has some health benefits.

Todd's medical situation has improved, but the current struggle is that they can't afford for him to go back to his previous employer because that would mean that with the cost of day care for three children, they would just be breaking even. Add the fact that they have only one vehicle, and Todd's desire to return to work makes little sense unless he can get a better job.

"The children have grown and really need jackets for the winter," Kathy said. The twins, Alicia and Jasmine, are a size 4T and 5T; their son, Arthur, is a size 3T jacket. Any other warm winter clothing would be greatly appreciated while this family strives to get back on its feet.

"The girls would really love a Dora talking stove. I know it's really expensive, but it would be for the two of them. Arthur's a typical boy and although he plays with his sisters' toys, he really loves dump trucks and stuff like that."

Few toys soon to be shared between three

Expecting her first baby girl to be born in two months, Tamika's energy level is limited while she cares for her 1- and 2-year-old boys. Tamika and Jamal are just getting back on their feet after a lapse in employment, and their resources are limited once bills are paid and food is purchased. Two-year-old Timal likes music and cars. His mother asked for anything along those lines that's age-appropriate. Gilberto, only 1 year old, also likes music, squeaky toys and rattles. His mother would appreciate some sippy cups for Christmas so she can wean him from a bottle. Toys or outfits for an infant girl would be most appreciated.

Donations can be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian office at 301 Broadway and should include the name of their recipient.

Those who wish to donate cash or a check should make it payable to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702.