Participants of Horizons center collect food for needy

After collecting and saving canned goods for the past two months, participants of the Horizons Enrichment Center in Cape Girardeau recently delivered baskets of food to a local school for distribution to a needy family in the community.

"Everyone got in the spirit of giving early, and it did not take long before we had filled two large boxes," said Cindy Schmoll, center director.

Horizons is a day program for adults with special needs. The program provides its clients with an opportunity to enjoy recreation, exercise, ongoing educational or training opportunities, social interaction, and community involvement in a safe and caring atmosphere.

Horizons is certified by the Missouri Department of Mental Health and is licensed by the Division of Aging. Funding is provided through a multitude of funding organizations as well as private donations.

"With all of the challenges that face each one here on a daily basis, they still never cease to amaze me with their big hearts, and kind and gentle ways," Schmoll said. "I can't tell you the times that I have looked up from my desk and watched as they give a helping hand, one to the other."

The lesson behind collecting and donating food to the needy for both Horizons clients and others is that even people who don't have very much can give of themselves and help someone else, Schmoll said.