TOYBOX, CHRISTMAS FOR THE ELDERLY COULD USE EARLY BOOST; DISABLED MAN WOULD APPRECIATE HELP

Mr. C is developmentally disabled and has had more than a dozen operations since 1990.

Even so, he tries to live a fulfilling life on very little income. He loves to talk, and is a very gentle, friendly man.

His only family is a sister who lives out of state. His only source of income is Social Security.

Mr. C needs everything.

He wears an extra large in most clothing and a size 10 or 11 in shoes. He most enjoys wearing sweatsuits and baseball caps, but he also needs socks, house shoes, sweaters and long, thermal underwear.

Mr. C also needs all types of household supplies. Gift certificates for food, toilletries and laundry detergents are all items he needs year-round. Taxis are Mr. C's only transportation, so he always needs cab coupons. He also needs help paying for utilities and telephone service.

Mr. C would like a toaster and electric can opener for Christmas.

Christmas for the Elderly provides people with special requests that many take for granted, including food, clothing and money for medications. The program, in its 12th year, is co-sponsored by Cape Girardeau County Health Services and the Southeast Missourian.

Gifts may be delivered to the Southeast Missourian or area locations through Dec. 13. Cash contributions, taxi coupons, paper products and grocery store gift certificates are always needed, and may help elderly people all year long.

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