Project Christmas, a community gift drive in Wexford and Missaukee counties, is already underway at area churches.

Participating groups collect a variety of items such as clothing, household items and toys. Each group is responsible for one category of presents.

At St. Ann's in Wexford County, the "gift tree" has been up for over a week. The leaves and ornaments on the tree have the description of a gift requested by a needy family. Parishoners take an ornament, buy the gift and then leave it under the tree.

9&10's Michael Kasiborski and photojournalist Jim Lehocky have more on the early start for Project Christmas.

If you'd like to get involved with the gift drive, contact Mary at 231-775-4490 or Norma at 231-775-9567.