SIMPLE GIFTS DELIGHT ELDERLY PEOPLE FACING BLEAK HOLIDAYS

In the past 12 editions of the Southeast Missourian, the stories of elderly people have been told with hope that their determination to live life to the fullest, despite financial and physical hardships, would touch the hearts of readers.

Many people have responded, bringing gifts so that their elderly neighbors might enjoy a Christmas surprise and the knowledge that someone remembers them this holiday.

But many others are still waiting. Without your help, the holidays may pass some elderly people in our community by as just another in a long series of lonely days.

While some of these elderly people face terrible financial difficulties, they are delighted by simple gifts of fruit baskets or a new bathrobe.

Many won't ask for help. After years of supporting themselves, raising families, taking care of others, it's hard for them to admit they now need a little extra support.

Christmas for the Elderly is a joint project of the Cape Girardeau Health Department and the Southeast Missourian newspaper as a way to bring a little holiday cheer to needy, elderly residents while still allowing them to maintain their dignity.

Organizers ask that gifts be given by Friday, if possible. Every contribution is needed.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian office, 301 Broadway, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.

Gifts may also be delivered to the health department, 1121 Linden, weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Checks may be mailed to Christmas for the Elderly, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63701.

For more information, call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.