(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.

(KFVS) - The Missouri Department of Transportation says the deadline to get your chili orders in is 4 p.m. on Monday, December 3.

MoDOT employees have helped grant Christmas wishes to Southeast Missouri families for 25 years with the Christmas Angels program.

"The program began decades ago with a crock pot of chili and the desire to help at least one child," said Transportation Project Designer Jeff Wachter. "With the help of area businesses, organizations and generous individuals, the program has grown. Last year, the event raised nearly $5,500-helping over 100 children."

This year's event will be held Thursday, Dec. 6, with chili orders due by 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3. The cost is $4 and will include a 16-ounce cup of chili, crackers and chips. Current MoDOT employees and retirees volunteer to cook, pack and deliver chili for the event. With the funds raised, volunteers buy gifts for children who would not otherwise receive gifts.

ALTENBURG, MO (KFVS) - The Perry County Lutheran Historical Society's Lutheran Heritage Center & Museum is pleased to announce their 8th Annual Christmas Tree Exhibit will now be open daily.

The exhibit will feature 40 themed Christmas trees, many Christmas collections and an extensive Nativity Scene collection. The exhibit is now open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Christmas Day and New Years Day).

Organizers say new this year: open until 8 p.m. the Thursdays before Christmas. Admission is free. New trees this year include: "Nine Ladies Dancing," a 100 year old German goose feather tree with antique ornaments, a Santa Extravaganza tree, a floral and crystal tree, and much more. They say their Christmas gift shop is full of regional history books, ornaments and many gift ideas.