YOUNG SOCCER PLAYER WOULD LIKE OWN BALL

Mark loves to play soccer, and he's pretty good, too. The 10-year-old thinks he could be a whole lot better if only he had his own soccer ball.

But soccer balls fall into the category of luxuries for Mark's mother, who is working to support Mark and his 2-year-old brother.

Mark's mother has asked Toybox if it would be possible to give Mark a soccer ball for Christmas. She also asked for a child's ball for little brother, who likes to imitate Mark.

Toybox would like to grant Mark's Christmas wish, but we need your help. Toybox is sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian newspaper to bring holiday joy to needy children.

The program depends on gifts from individuals and groups, which are then distributed to the children.

A soccer ball given will find its way to Mark, or another child who wishes for a ball. Dump trucks are matched with children who want dump trucks; Ninja Turtles are sorted out for turtle lovers; Barbie dolls are given to little girls who want Santa to bring that special gift.

Cash donations are used to buy specific items, including toys, coats, shoes and underwear.

Toybox gifts will be delivered by a team of Jaycees Santas on Dec. 19.

Toybox serves children in Cape Girardeau up to age 12. Applications are being accepted at the Salvation Army, 701 Good Hope, through Dec. 6.

Donations of new, unwrapped toys are requested. Also donations of new coats, mittens, hats and warm clothes are needed.

Gifts may be dropped off at the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway, West Park Mall, Capital Bank, AmeriFirst Bank, Farm and Home Savings Association, Gulliver's Travel Agency and Perry Travel Center.

Cash gifts may be sent to Toybox, P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63701.

For more information, call Kim McDowell at 335-6611.