Single dad looking for a little help for his son

This single dad says he feels like he lost almost everything in the last few years.

"But I have my son. He's the best thing in my life. That's why I'm asking for help this Christmas," he told Press Christmas for All.

The man and his wife split in 2012, and he has sole custody of their 8-year-old boy.

"That was hard, really hard, but we were getting used to it," the dad said.

He used to work in construction and landscaping.

"The pay was decent, but then I was in a car accident in January, and I hurt my leg pretty bad," he said.

He was out of work for six months, and had to use up all his savings to pay bills and rent.

He's now working at a local call center, but he said he isn't making enough money to stay on top of all the bills, and things are falling behind.

The dad said he is planning to attend North Idaho College in the spring or fall. He said he hopes to learn some skills that will help him find better-paying employment that doesn't require physical labor.

After the crash, his elderly parents helped him as much as they were able to, until his mother died in September.

"She was sick for a long time, and I know she's in peace now, but man, it still hurts," the dad said. "I just want to make Christmas a little special for my boy. It's been a hard year."

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.

Donations can be made securely online at www.christmasforallcda.com.

Recent donors include: Bonnie Petty, in honor of my husband Paul Petty; Patricia and Dale Ruperd; Clyde Ylitalo; Donald and Kathy Verburg; Ed and Terri Morse; Laundry Night Ladies; Lawrence and Cathy Kraus; Verna Shannon; Harold and Christian Markiewicz; Richard and Kimberly Listoe, in memory of Cissy Smith; Helen and Roger Olson