Health, job woes affect area family
This wife and mother says the past year has been the most challenging she and her husband have ever experienced.
The husband was laid off just over a year ago from a job he had for 10 years. A week later the wife's mother died unexpectedly.
"It was terrible. We were still shaking our heads about his work," said the wife, who has had multiple sclerosis for several years.
She said when her MS symptoms flared up, her mother helped her care for their two young children, and take care of the house.
"I miss her so much, and it's so hard without her," the woman said.
On top of the grief, she said she and her husband are battling anxiety caused by financial stress.
"We're having trouble making the mortgage payment and keeping the lights on," the mom told Christmas for All.
Her husband has been to more job interviews than she can remember, she said. But nothing has panned out. His unemployment ran out a few months ago, and they've gone through their savings.
"He's doing odd jobs here and there, but it doesn't pay the bills," the said. "It's really depressing. We get food stamps, and we go to the food bank too, but it would be nice to be able to get a few extra treats for Christmas dinner."
With our readers' assistance, Press Christmas for All works to brighten the holidays for people like this - the jobless, homeless, those who are barely making ends meet, individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Many are alone this holiday season.
Each year, our generous readers' donations allow us to assist thousands of Kootenai County families in need. Each day until Christmas, we will share the stories of those whose holiday memories will be a little happier because of Press Christmas for All.
Donations are collected, then distributed in the form of gift cards to Kootenai County residents in need.
Press Christmas for All is a holiday charity now in its 29th year. It is managed as a nonprofit by The Hagadone Corp. Because it is run by volunteers from The Hagadone Corp. and their partners at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, every penny raised is distributed in the form of gift cards from local retailers who also generously support the program. The cards can be used to buy food and gifts but not alcohol or tobacco products. All contributions are tax deductible.
To give, please send a check to:
Press Christmas for All, 201 Second St., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814.
You can also call (208) 664-8176 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and donate by credit card.
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Recent donors include: Carol and Robert Yost; Jean and Ronald Voights; Robert and Lennis McLeod; Sandra Caron;
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