A time to help children, elderly at Christmas

Next week Americans will gather for Thanksgiving. Friends and families will enjoy food, fellowship and football. It's also the kickoff for the Christmas shopping season.

Black Friday often brings long lines, with shoppers getting in a festive spirit leading up to Christmas.

But we know there are people who are struggling. Those who face financial challenges and barely make ends meet. Some parents cannot afford presents for youngsters, and there are elderly people who can barely afford basic necessities.

This is where the Cape Girardeau Jaycees and the Southeast Missourian come in.

Each year we partner through Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly.

Toybox is a program whereby individuals can donate monetarily or through gifts for children of all ages. In its 40th year, Toybox helped more than 1,000 children receive a gift last Christmas. Families seeking support can go to the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau to complete an application.

Christmas for the Elderly has been around for 30 years. Last year, 42 seniors were helped, with assistance coming in the form of supplies, gift cards and specific needs.

Last year there was someone who needed a bed. A donor met this need. Another senior needed help with a pharmacy bill, and still another needed eye surgery.

The generosity of this community is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing this same generous spirit this Christmas season.

Those who would like to donate to Christmas for the Elderly or Toybox may do so through Dec. 18. Christmas for the Elderly donations may be brought to the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway, or mailed to P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Kim's Toybox Run also will be held on Nov. 30 before the downtown Cape Girardeau Christmas parade. It begins at 4:55 p.m. at the West End Boulevard and Broadway intersection. The registration fee benefits Toybox, and toy donations also will be accepted.

Thank you for your support of Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly.