Christmas for All goal: $170,000

Gentlemen and women, start your checkbooks.

Press Christmas for All 2015 is at the starting line.

In this, the 30th annual campaign, a goal of $170,000 has been set. The objective: On the front page of the Dec. 24 Christmas Eve edition of The Press, we want to put a shiny star atop that tree.

We haven’t been able to do that the past few years, as donations have fallen short of goal. When that happens, nearly 9,000 Kootenai County residents still receive gift cards for presents and food — just in smaller amounts than we’d like to give.

Now begins a new season, and while the need is great, we believe a strengthening economy and a powerful charitable spirit will combine to make everyone’s wishes come true.

Please pitch in what you can afford. Donations are tax deductible, and every single penny raised goes to Kootenai County residents who need your help to brighten their holiday or even make any kind of celebration possible. Mail your check to Press Christmas for All, 215 Second St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814, or go to cdapress.com and do so electronically. We also have staff standing by to accept your gift by phone: (208) 664-8176.