UPPER LAKE, Calif. – The 17^th annual Upper Lake Fire Auxiliary/Northshore Fire Protection District Christmas Cheer Program for the Northshore areas of Blue Lakes, Upper Lake, Nice and Lucerne is under way.

The groups are seeking donations of unwrapped gifts and toys for children under the age of 17.

Wish gift tags are available at WestAmerica Bank's Upper Lake branch.

Choose a tag, buy a gift and return the unwrapped gift to one of the following locations: WestAmerica Bank, Upper Lake; fire stations in Nice, Lucerne or Upper Lake; and Pet Acres on Highway 20 in Upper Lake.

Cash donations also are welcome if you do not have time to shop.

Donations of nonperishable food, or frozen turkeys or ham also will be accepted at the fire stations or Pet Acres.

Canned food drives for the program are being held at Upper Lake's elementary, middle and high schools, and by various other organizations in the Northshore area.