Family provider seeks a little Christmas joy
She’s the only financial supporter of a large household, working more than 40 hours a week and barely able to make ends meet.
But this mother and grandmother provides more than money for her family members.
“I gained complete custody of my 2-year-old grandson due to my daughter having a drug problem that made it necessary for me to step up for his well-being,” she told Christmas for All.
Her longtime significant other recently became disabled. He had two mini-strokes in the past year, she said.
Another grown daughter and her husband needed help and have moved into her home. They’re looking for work, have signed up with employment agencies and are putting in applications daily, but have had no luck finding jobs yet.
“I have a 16-year-old son that is doing awesome in school,” she said.
She said she would love to be able to buy something to place under the tree for her loved ones, but as things stand right now, she can pay bills or spend money for a little Christmas joy, but she can’t do both.
This is the 32nd year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of people like this during the holiday season.
The program helps everyone in need, including struggling young families, seniors, people with disabilities and mental illnesses. Many are alone, and despair is common.
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.
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.
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 are tax-deductible and 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 goo.gl/WospPG.
Recent donors: Barbara Hudson; Ronald and Paula Adams; Karen Van Slate and Kimberly Buffin; Ken and Dee Dee Koep; William Wood and Kris Olson-Wood; Dean and Judy Stepp; Kathleen Robson; Fairway Floor, Inc.