Mom puts on brave face for kids

It takes great effort for this mother of three to seem cheerful during the holiday season.

But she puts on a brave face and carries on, she said, for her kids.

Their father died unexpectedly two years ago, and this is the family's third Christmas without him.

"There's an empty space all the time," the mom told Press Christmas for All. "But it gets really bad this time of year."

That sadness is compounded this holiday season with financial troubles. She works full-time, but said her wages don't cover all the family's expenses.

Some new problems have added to the struggle.

"My son's really having problems - anxiety and depression, they think," the mom said.

There have been some behavioral issues as well, and she has had to take time off work because the boy was unable to remain in school. The boy hasn't responded to any of the medications they've tried yet.

"And my paychecks are smaller than ever," she said. "I don't know what else to do. My kids are hurting, and I can't do much to make Christmas even a little special."

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 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: Patricia Polland; Gwen Letson; Ellen Milow; J. and H. Yuditsky.