Father seeks aid after layoff and injuries

A serious car accident led to this father of two losing the job he had worked for nearly a decade. Permanent nerve damage left him unable to perform manual labor, and his lack of experience has kept him from finding a new job in a different field.

With bills piling up, he told Press Christmas for All he’s struggling to pay rent and keep the lights and heat on at his home. He said his fiance has been “a blessing,” but a debilitating illness prevents her from working to help pay their costs.

The father has always prided himself on providing Christmas for his two young sons, ages 3 and 4. This year, he needs help to give them the Christmas they deserve.

“I don’t want them to think Daddy failed,” he said.

This is the 30th year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of Kootenai County residents in need during the holiday season.

Each year, Press readers donate generously to the program. The money collected is distributed in the form of gift cards to those who might not otherwise be able to put a holiday meal on the table or purchase a small gift for a child. The program helps everyone in need, including struggling young families, seniors, people with disabilities and mental illnesses. Many are alone, and despair is a common factor.

Through Christmas for All, these less fortunate neighbors feel the compassion of a caring community during what can be a very difficult time of year for them.

Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. It is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers at The Hagadone Corp., the Coeur d’Alene Press and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.

Every penny raised is distributed to needy Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp. and the volunteers at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.

Donations can be made by dropping off or mailing a check to: Press Christmas for All, 215 Second St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

Online donations can be made by visiting http://bit.ly/ChristmasforAllDonations

Donations are also accepted by phone. Call (208) 664-8176 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to use a credit card to contribute.

Recent donors:

Gary and Donna Monroe, Shelly Renner-Allen, Scott and Brooke Learmonth.