SS CHECKS DON'T GO FAR FOR WOMAN, MOM

Mrs. Q lost her husband a few years ago. Her mother moved into her small house shortly thereafter.

Although she likes the company, Mrs. Q is finding that her Social Security checks are not enough to provide for anything other than basic necessities.

Much of her money is used to pay her utility bills and for insulin to combat diabetes. She also must provide for her two dogs.

Through Christmas for the Elderly, perhaps Mrs. Q could indulge in a trip to a beautician. A gift certificate is the only way she can afford such a luxury.

Christmas for the Elderly is a joint project of the Cape Girardeau County Health Department and Southeast Missourian.

Mrs. Q is in need of a toaster. She could also use large pajamas for the winter.

Since she does not qualify for food stamps, a gift certificate from a grocery story would help Mrs. Q throughout the holidays.

Mrs. R also suffers from diabetes. She has high blood pressure and cataracts.

Mrs. R is on Social Security and Medicaid. She anticipates having difficulty paying for her utility bill during the winter months. She also could use a gift certificate from a grocery store.

House slippers, size 7 1/2, and gloves for driving are on Mrs. R's Christmas for the Elderly wish list. So is a four-piece canister set, full-size bed sheet and pillow case. She is also in need of a skillet.

Mrs. R would like dog food and a medium-size coat for her dog.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway, or the Cape Girardeau County Health Department, 1121 Linden.

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

For more information call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.