ENTER THE MIRACLE OF COMMUNITY GENEROSITY

Each year it seems the celebration of Christmas begins a little earlier. But perhaps it's not just because holiday sales are so important to retailers. Perhaps -- just perhaps -- it's because people cherish that spirit of compassion and generosity the season brings.

Yes, people help those in need throughout the year. The recent floods were a good example -- as people opened their hearts and pocketbooks to complete strangers. But oftentimes, it takes a disaster to stir such compassion.

But not at Christmas.

Community groups eagerly gear up to help families with food, clothing and toys. And programs such as Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly make Christmas dreams come true.

And many of these "dreams" are not so grand -- a Barbie doll, a shiny red fire truck, or as one eight year old asked "just something to play with."

Times are tight for many families -- especially those who have suffered with high medical bills, unemployment or personal tragedies. The flood certainly took its toll on area families this year -- leaving many children without a home, much less a Christmas. Single parents often find money can barely stretch to cover essentials -- much less toys under the tree.

But enter the miracle of community generosity.

You gave your gifts blindly -- never to hear the squeals of delight or see the miles of smiles Tuesday night during Toybox deliveries. But let us share those hugs and smiles with you right now -- your gifts were greatly appreciated. You warmed the hearts of children -- and their parents -- many of whom have had little to celebrate this holiday season. These children can again believe in the miracle of Santa Claus because a stranger cared.

Toybox, a joint project between the Southeast Missourian and the Cape Girardeau Jaycees, delivered presents to more than 1,000 children in 463 homes this year. The demand increased by almost 70 applications this year -- most of that due to the flooding devastation. But the community didn't flinch. You came through again.

The same can be said for Christmas for the Elderly. Gifts were received for each and every case. These senior citizens were so touched by your compassion. Many are without close family or friends, and combat their day-to-day pressures alone. Their stories were moving -- they didn't want flashy extravagance. Most asked shyly for basic needs -- warm clothing, food or medicine. Your gifts were greeted with laughter, hugs, and tears of joy.

This marks the ninth year for Christmas for the Elderly, which is co-sponsored by the Southeast Missourian newspaper and the Cape Girardeau County Health Department. As in past years, more gifts were received than requested, and thus will be used to help other seniors throughout the year.

But even more than the gift itself, the effort made by strangers can really touch these senior citizens. Most of these people find little to celebrate at Christmas. The fact that someone cares enough to give them a gift at the holidays boosts their spirits immeasurably. And that's a gift that can carry throughout the year.

Community generosity is also pushing the Salvation Army's Tree of Lights Campaign steadily toward its goal of $115,000. Collections have topped $100,000, and organizers hope the goal will be reached this week. The funding will be used not only to spread Christmas cheer -- through gifts of food and toys -- but to help families in need throughout the year with lodging, food and clothing.

Some people complain that people are only generous at Christmas -- and wonder why that giving can't continue year round. We beg to differ.

We have found that when people are in need -- Cape Girardeau and the region comes through time and time again -- no matter what the season or reason. And the generous giving during the holidays are often designed to carry these agencies through the year. We salute each silent Santa who gave to Christmas for the Elderly, Toybox, the Tree of Lights campaign, or the dozens of other drives and programs this holiday season. It's your caring that makes this Christmas season so very special.