TOYBOX CHILDREN TURN TO YOU FOR CHRISTMAS

A 7-year-old girl has developed an interest in reading. She also shows some artistic ability.

Her mother says when she is not reading she likes to work with coloring books or explore the world of arts and crafts.

She also likes to play with jewelry.

These items have become too expensive for Christmas gifts this year. However, with the help of Toybox, a joint project sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and Southeast Missourian, they could become reality.

The child lives with her mother and never sees her father; her father has not informed the family of his current address.

Giving this child a chance to satisfy her creative interests would bring new meaning to a Christmas she otherwise would not have.

A 12-year-old Cape Girardeau boy dreams of one day being able to play with race cars. His parents have listed race cars and gloves as items he would prefer as one of the area Toybox recipients. Like many Toybox applicants, however, the family would be happy to receive any gift this Christmas.

Three children from another family, two girls, ages 7 and 10, and a boy, 11, are living with their mother at a friend's house until they can get back on their feet.

Among toys on their wish list: dolls, jewelry, board games.

A 5-year-old girl from another family has become fascinated with Barbie dolls. Her brother, 4, has become interested in putting puzzles together.

Applications for Toybox will be accepted at the Salvation Army through Dec. 9 for children up to age 12.

New, unwrapped toys can be delivered to the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway, or to the following Toybox collection sites: West Park Mall, Boatmen's Bank, Capital Bank, Perry Travel Center, Gulliver's Travel Agency, AmeriFirst Bank, Commerce Bank, Roosevelt Bank and Mercantile Bank.

Gifts and contributions may be mailed to Toybox Trust, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702-0004.