Double whammy for twins
<p>Cancer and Community Charities donates $1,500 to Press Christmas For All. Pictured in front row, from left: Carolyn Andersen, Linda Pedersen, Lori Wallin, Sally Cannon, Sally Barnett, Carol Peterson, Mike Patrick of the Coeur d'Alene Press, Barb Newland, President of 3Cs, Brenda Collett, and Bobbi Freeman. Back row, from left: Judy Gardner, Lucille Smith, Peg High, Marcia Saunders, Ann Dare, Gwen Letson, Ann Wallin, Marilyn Smith, Connie Anderson, Kathy Robson and Sandie Rolphe.</p>
Raising twins and financial roadblocks are hitting this family with a double whammy.
"Winter is especially hard on us," the mom wrote to Press Christmas for all.
Work always slows down this time of year for the mom, who works hard to provide for the young teens.
The boys' birthday also falls during this slow work season, which means parties and presents, if they even exist, are humble.
"They never really get to celebrate," the mom said. "It also makes it difficult to do much for Christmas."
The family's rent was raised this year, placing an added stress on the mom to provide a safe and secure home for the twins.
Funds for Christmas this year are less than ever.
"I know my children are old enough to understand that bills come first, but it also breaks my heart a little," she shared with Press Christmas for All. "I always make sure we have what we need, but I cannot always afford to do a little extra, which would be much appreciated for Christmas."
This is the 31st 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 cdapress.com/christmas_for_all.
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: Mick and Naomi Blakely; Dorothy Clark; Nadine Barker, in loving memory of my husband Milo; Joan Day; Randall Link; Dale Curly; Helen Herndon; Karen Brown; Raymond and Barbara Bradley; James and Mary Ann Hollingsworth; Arthur and Nancy Flagan; Thomas and Kristi Sharbono; James and Georgia Warren; Douglas Welbourn, in memory of Robbie; CDA Athletic Roundtable; Charles and Mary Adams, in loving memory of our son Chuck Jr.; Dewitt and Ardith Barton.