CHRISTMAS FOR ALL Single mom tries to regroup after homelessness

As part of the annual Press Christmas for All Campaign, we share with readers the stories of those applying for help. This is one of them.

“Carolin” is the single mother of two, ages twelve and seventeen. She is working hard to return to stability after about nine months of homelessness which was a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The disabled mom, who is also diabetic, is the sole provider for her family, surviving on about $13,000 annually.

Carolin worked with St. Vincent de Paul to secure permanent housing. She also worked diligently to learn how to better manage her finances, taking a yearlong financial course offered by the shelter.

She managed to qualify for a small loan to purchase a vehicle and worked tirelessly to pay it off within six months, she said.

Living in such insecurity made managing her diabetes a big challenge also, but Carolin kept moving forward. Currently she is working with a dietician to learn healthy meal planning and better management of her condition.

Though Carolin has had a lot of well-earned success, her vehicle sees a lot of use and now needs new tires and an alignment. Already on a very limited budget, there just isn’t any room for it, she said.

A few months ago, one of her tires went flat and her only option was to use the spare, which shortly thereafter also blew out as she was traveling down I-90, Carolin said.

As the family's only method of transportation, Carolin needs to be able to get to and from counseling, medical appointments and to take her children to school, in order to continue on the road to success and stability.

"Carolin has been working hard for the past year to provide stability for her children," a referring partner said. "Making improvements in all areas - she did it!"

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.

If readers are moved to donate towards this worthy cause, please make your donation sooner than later. Here are four ways to do it:

• 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 the MENU button, then click on Christmas for All 2021.
• Drop off your check at The Press weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.: 215 N. Second St. in downtown Coeur d'Alene.