JACKSON, MO (KFVS) - A scheduling conflict is having an impact on the Jackson Police Department's toy drive.

For the past 10 years, the deparment teamed up with the Elks to help give toy to families in need.

But this year, a scheduling problem prevented the department from working with the Elks.

Normally families can apply for toys through the Elks, but that's not happening this year.

People looking for toys can still go to the Jackson Police Department to apply.

"We always find one way or another to help as many as possible," said Rachel Coleman with the Jackson Police Department. "Some years we haven't been able to give as many to each family. It just really depends on how many kids we have signed up and how much money we actually bring in to be able to go shopping."

The department says it usually gets between 300 and 400 requests for toys. This year, they've received around 100 to 150 requests.

(KFVS) - The American Red Cross will be collecting and distributing cards that send words of encouragement, gratitude and cheer to America's heroes for the holiday season.

The Red Cross is inviting the public to send messages of thanks and holiday cheer until Dec. 7 by mailing them to:

Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

To ensure that cards are delivered on time for the holidays, the Red Cross says they must be postmarked no later than Dec. 7. Individuals are asked to refrain from sending "care packages," monetary donations or using glitter or any other kinds of inserts with the cards.

According to the Red Cross, the company Pitney Bowes Inc. receives cards at the special Holiday Mail post office box, and screens them for hazardous materials. The company screens, packages and ships the cards at no charge.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - The Lutheran Family and Children's Services of Missouri is sponsoring its 25th annual Holiday Home Tour on December 1.

The tours will be at homes in Cape Girardeau and Jackson from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door the day of the tour.

Proceeds go to Lutheran Family and Children's Services Cape Girardeau office.

Purchase tickets online.

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