Christmas giving

When you prepare your Christmas list this year, make sure to generously support the programs that assist the financially disadvantaged.

The Jaycees and Southeast Missourian are again sponsoring the Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly programs. This is the 36th year for the annual Toybox program. Last year the program provided Christmas gifts to more than 1,200 children in the city of Cape Girardeau who would otherwise not receive a gift on Christmas Day. Christmas for the Elderly collects common household items such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, blankets or other necessities to help seniors.

Financial contributions for both programs may be mailed to P.O. Box 4, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 or brought to the Southeast Missourian, 301 Broadway. There are also several locations in Cape Girardeau for those wanting to donate a new toy. To find a list of Toybox drop-off locations, go to www.capejaycees.org.

The Marine Corps League has also kicked off its annual Toys for Tots campaign. Toys for Tots covers seven counties in Southeast Missouri -- but not the city of Cape Girardeau. To find one of the 70 toy collection sites, go to www.cape-girardeau-mo.toysfortots.org.

There are also several other organizations seeking donations for their Christmas toy drives. Please consider spreading Christmas cheer this year in your giving.