Senior could use warm clothes and a toy for his feline friend

Mr. I, 79, has no family living, but he does not live alone, according to his visiting nurse.

"That cat of his is his best friend," she said. Thomas, Mr. I's cat, has a lot of personality and follows him around, sleeps with him and comforts him when the arthritis in his knees goes unrelieved. A veteran of World War II, Mr. I has always had cats, but not at all of them had as much personality as Thomas. The two watch television together, and when Mr. I goes out to the mailbox, so does Thomas.

Mr. I's limited income barely meets his needs. The visiting nurse believes Mr. I's good attitude can be attributed to Thomas.

Mr. I would really like a toy for his cat. One that's attached to a string might help Mr. I because getting up and down is difficult on his knees.

The visiting nurse believes a gift certificate for Meals on Wheels is what Mr. I really needs, but he is happy to cook for himself. A gift certificate from Wal-Mart would help to buy some of his favorites -- frozen dinners, soda and Folger's coffee.

Mr. I doesn't have gloves or a hat. His favorite color is blue. Medium-size flannel shirts and some socks would help keep this elderly man warm this winter. These items are extras that Mr. I can't afford.

For those interested in contributing to the Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly campaigns, new toys and gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian office or area locations.

Donations will be taken up to the delivery day, Dec. 19.

Cash contributions are also welcome. All contributions are tax-deductible and may be mailed separately to Toybox Trust, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004, or Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.