This year's Toybox collection could be largest

More than 400 applications for assistance from Toybox have been received by organizers.

And most of those applications are from families with several children who won't have Christmas presents unless they receive gifts donated by the community.

Toybox is a joint effort of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian that provides gifts to needy children up to age 12.

This year could be the largest ever for Toybox, said Mike Seabaugh, an organizer.

And that means more gifts are needed. The collection is down on just about every staple: puzzles, educational toys, board games, sports balls and equipment, infant and toddler toys, Barbies and dolls.

Special requests for toys include SpongeBob SquarePants, Spider-Man, Dora the Explorer, Bob the Builder, Hello Kitty and Scooby-Doo.

One child, 6, whose family has asked for help would like some reading and math games for the Leap Frog educational programs. His 9-year-old sister wants a new radio, hair accessories, nail polish and activity books.

Donations of new, unused toys are being collected at Southeast Missourian offices in Cape Girardeau and Jackson, AAA Travel Agency, First National Bank, First Missouri State Bank, Bank of America, Sanders True Value, Bank of Missouri, Capaha Bank, Cingular Wireless, Union Planters Bank, Alliance Bank, Toys R Us, Commerce Bank, Westfield Shoppingtown West Park, U.S. Bank and Wehrenberg Theatres.

Tax-deductible contributions can be mailed to Toybox Trust at P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.