A giving time

Santa made early calls on 291 Cape Girardeau families this week, leaving behind big smiles and happy youngsters. The visits were arranged by members of the Cape Girardeau Jaycees who, along with the Southeast Missourian, have just concluded another successful Toybox effort.

Toybox helps with gifts for children who otherwise might not receive much in the way of Christmas presents. For 32 years the Jaycees and Southeast Missourian have made it their mission to meet the requests of thousands of children.

The reason Toybox is able to do so much good for so many children is the fact that this is a giving community that responds when needs are publicized.

And thanks, too, to the many donor of items for some of our elderly residents whose special needs have been met through the Christmas for the Elderly program.

To one and all who helped in any way with this year's Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly projects: Thanks. You have given the priceless gift of concern for your neighbors.