Each Christmas, Christmas Cheer provide between 1,200 and 1,500 people with food for a holiday dinner and toys for each child.

Recipients are South Shore low-income families referred by social service agencies. Because of an increase in the numbers of those in need combined with a depressed local economy the need for donations is great.

Food needs:

Turkeys (1,000), stuffing, produce (carrots, potatoes, celery, nuts, peas, yams), dairy (butter or oleo, milk, eggs, cheeses), canned vegetables and fruits, breads and rolls, canned tuna, desserts (jello, pudding mixes, pies, cakes), peanut butter, spaghetti sauce, oatmeal or cereal, soups, dry foods (noodles, rice, beans, spaghetti or pasta), crackers and snacks, and toys. The greatest need is for teen presents.

Christmas Cheer accepts cash and/or gift card donations. A family of three or four can be fed on $25. A 20-pound turkey, which can feed nine, costs about $20.

Ten dollars can buy a gift for a child.

Bags will be given out Dec. 21 and Dec. 22 from 10am-4pm at South Tahoe Middle School multipurpose room.

For more info, contact Joann Shope at (530) 542.4934.