Toybox organizers begin work collecting gifts for children

The smiles, the laughter, children's joyful tears and parents' relieved expressions make the hard work that goes into collecting gifts for Toybox every year worthwhile, organizers say.

"It's so rewarding to help children have a gift for Christmas," said Tracy Haggerty of Toybox. "I am so passionate about this program, partly because as a teacher I see kids every day and know the struggles they have. I am always amazed at how generous our community is in providing for the children in our city."

The Jaycees' Toybox program has been collecting gifts for more than 35 years. Toybox partners with the Salvation Army and the Southeast Missourian to identify families in need in Cape Girardeau and collect toys for the children. Last year Toybox served 1,200 children.

"I tell my children that it's not what you get, it's about the giving," said one parent who wished not to be identified. Her children have received gifts from the program. "I have bills that need to be paid first, and there's just not enough money left for presents. There are generous people in the world, and I tell my children they need to be that way, too, and share what they have."

Applications to receive help from Toybox are taken at the Salvation Army, where they are screened and checked for eligibility. Toybox serves only families living in Cape Girardeau and children ages 12 and younger.

"We get 400 to 500 applications each year," said Kim McDowell of the Southeast Missourian, one of the organizers of Toybox. "I've worked with Toybox for over 25 years; it's a wonderful program."

This year, Santa's helpers will deliver the toys to each family Dec. 21. Their loaded white vans leave the warehouse to make deliveries all over the city.

"It's awesome to see all of these volunteers as Santa's helpers wanting to provide for the kids of our town." Haggerty said. "I've helped deliver toys every year since I got involved, and it's a wonderful feeling."

Haggerty said it takes all of December to organize the gift giving. She asked that donations be made early so the program can ensure each child has a special toy.

"A lot of times we get donations near the time we deliver, and it's hard to get everything put in order," she said. "It would really help if donations could be made early in the month of December."

Haggerty and her Jaycee crew of Santas are already at work with the Salvation Army receiving applications and making up Santa's list. Twenty volunteers help organize and collect the toys and deliver them.

Donated toys can be dropped off at any of the Toybox locations, including The Southeast Missourian at 301 Broadway. Monetary donations can be made to Toybox, P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, MO 63702.

Here are some most requested items by the children: learning toys, educational games, Barbie dolls, Transformers, Hannah Montana and Dora the Explorer items, Spider-Man, board games, children's books, trucks, outdoor games and sporting equipment such as soccer and footballs, and videos such as "High School Musical."