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Single mom seeks safe vehicle

| December 21, 2020 1:07 AM

As part of the annual Press Christmas for All Campaign, we share with readers the stories of the people applying for help. Here’s one of them.

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For “Becca,” life is better right now than it has been for a long time — but it’s still far from easy.

A single mom of three, Becca’s divorce was finalized in late 2019, after several years of separation from her ex-husband.

“He’s kind of in the picture when he wants to be,” she said. “I have the kids all the time.”

Becca’s car was totaled in an accident in March. She used her savings to purchase a replacement, but it turned out to be a lemon.

She recently got a van, which runs but needs numerous repairs.

“I’m hoping to get the repairs done so I can finally have a reliable vehicle,” she said.

The family has also struggled to find stable housing. Over the last few years, Becca and her kids have lived with different family members — sometimes sharing a spare room, sometimes renting a place together. Each situation proved untenable.

Becca finally found a place of her own this month.

“We’re so happy about it,” she said.

Having their own space is a relief for Becca’s children, who are between the ages of 3 and 14.

“It’s been really stressful for the last few years, between getting divorced and not having our own space,” Becca said.

Becca is a few credits shy of earning an associate’s degree at North Idaho College. Though the pandemic put some of her plans on hold, she hopes to finish next year and move on to a four-year program. Her goal is to become a veterinarian.

Though the road has been bumpy, Becca said she’s determined to keep going — not just for herself, but for her kids.

“We’ve been through a lot,” she said. “But we’re always together.”

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This is the 35th year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of Kootenai County residents in need.

Each year, Press readers donate generously to the program. Every penny raised is distributed to Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp.

The gift recipients are our neighbors who are struggling, including the elderly, disabled, homeless and mentally ill.

Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working, but living near or below the poverty level. The beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All are going to keep their dignity intact while the community provides a hand up to help get them back on their feet.

Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from CharityReimagined.Org. It is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers.

Please help. Make your tax-deductible donation today any of four ways:

• Mail a check to Press Christmas for All, 215 N. Second St., Coeur d’Alene, 83814

• Call The Press and make a secure credit card donation over the phone: 208-664-8176

• Go to cdapress.com. Click on Christmas for All 2020 at the top of the page.

• Drop off your check at The Press weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.: 215 N. Second St. in downtown CDA.