Military reservist's family in need of assistance
The family of a National Guardsman is struggling to make ends meet this season.
Though the father serves in the National Guard — and has regular work at a civilian job — they still have trouble paying their bills. With five children, three of whom are teenagers, and one under the age of 5, they have little money left over for the holidays.
The mother also has ongoing medical concerns that cause her to have difficulty finding work. She is also attempting to finish college, with only a few classes left before graduation. She told Press Christmas for All that she hopes the degree will help her get a job that will pay well enough to help cover their costs.
“We’re just trying to make ends meet until I can graduate and pay off the mountain of debt from medical bills,” the mother told Press Christmas for All.
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:
Delores Griffin; Evalyn Adams; Barbara Zimmer; Tom & Sally Stuber; In memory of Arlene Lund; Robert & Carol Yost; Lois Johnson, In memory of Harry E. Johnson; Donna & Bill Armbruster, In loving memory of our grandson Tyler Cordle; Cecil & Mary Alice Hathaway; Parker & Kay Woodall; Jerry & Ellen Jaeger; Dan Gookin; Aker’s Logging, Betty Ball, In memory of Kenneth Ball.