Toys needed to keep energetic 10-year-old busy

Toybox

A mother with an active child and another with a learning disability has made some special requests of Toybox this year. Toybox is a program of the Southeast Missourian and Cape Girardeau Jaycees that provides gifts to needy children.

This mother has asked that her exuberant, energetic 10-year-old son get games or toys that will keep him busy. He's very sports-oriented, she says, and needs an outdoor activity.

By contrast, the 7-year-old girl is more subdued and needs books and educational games that will help her with math skills and memorization.

Games, books and toys for children up to age 12 are needed to fulfill the requests of nearly 500 families seeking assistance this year. The presents will be delivered Thursday.

Christmas for the Elderly

Mrs. R lives in her own home and manages well considering she's suffered a stroke and has diabetes and heart problems.

She has several requests for Christmas gifts, including grocery and pharmacy gift certificates that she can spend throughout the year. She has requested a new blue sweater and a pink bathrobe, both in size extra large. A pair of large house shoes, a pair of black casual shoes in size 11, white socks, underwear and a bra suitable for a size 40 woman who's had a mastectomy. She also wants a short winter coat in size 20 that's either white or beige.

Donations should be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian offices before Thursday. Tax-deductible monetary donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0004.