Foster mom battles COVID-19, car problems

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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When “Rachel” decided to become a foster parent, she planned to take in one child. A single woman in her 20s, that seemed like the most she could handle.

Life had other plans.

One child was placed with Rachel — and before long, two of the child’s siblings followed.

Suddenly Rachel was a mom of three.

“It’s been the most challenging, growth-filled and rewarding year and a half I’ve ever had,” she said.

In that time, Rachel said the kids have made tremendous progress. They’re working through past trauma and growing together as a family.

“We’ve gotten significantly healthier,” Rachel said.

There have been some bumps along the way, however. In the spring, Rachel caught COVID-19.

“Normally, when you get sick, people come and help you,” she said. “But nobody could help.”

But the family managed — together. Rachel said the oldest child did a good job helping around the house while she recovered.

Raising foster kids has come with some challenges, including the wear and tear on Rachel’s car.

In addition to getting the kids to school like any parent, she also drives them to visits with Health and Welfare, therapy sessions and other appointments. One of the children has medical needs that require regular trips to Spokane.

“There were a lot of miles put on my car,” Rachel said.

A new set of tires would make these long drives safer for the family.

Becoming a foster parent has opened Rachel’s eyes to the challenges people face in this community that often go unseen.

“I don’t think I’m the person I once was,” she said.

About 1,500 Idaho children are currently in foster care, according to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

“They’re not the state’s kids,” Rachel said. “They’re the community’s kids, and they need us to help take care of them.”

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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 All Sections at the top of the page, then click on Christmas for All 2020.

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