Good support means Toybox success

To the editor:

It is easy to get caught up in the rush and forget the meaning of the Christmas season, yet so many members of this community did not forget. Those who gave so generously to the Jaycee Toybox remembered that the season is about giving and sharing, and I wish to thank each of you.

For more than 30 years, residents of Cape Girardeau County and the surrounding area have included children on their Christmas shopping list whom they do not even know. Thanks to their help, the Jaycees and other volunteers are able to fill toy requests for over a thousand children. Making a difference would not be possible without a lot of support from others.

A special thanks goes out to all the businesses that allowed us to place collection boxes. Thanks to the Southeast Missourian, who year after year co-sponsors this event and gets the word out. Thanks to Gayle Hennecke and Chris Smith for the donation of the warehouse to set up headquarters for delivery night and the weeks before of preparation. Thanks to Bluff City Beer Co., Kohlfield Distributing Inc. and Schnucks Supermarkets for providing refreshments. Thanks to the Jaycees who give up many nights during the holiday season to make this Christmas special for children.

Participating in the Jaycee Toybox is one of my most rewarding endeavors. I wish everyone could see the faces of the children when Santa knocks at the door. Thank you for making a difference.

TRACY HAGGERTY, Secretary, Cape Girardeau Jaycees Chapter