CHRISTMAS FOR ALL Building stability on a shaky foundation

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.

“Amber’s” biggest challenge has been struggling with mental health issues. Battling depression and anxiety for years, these problems have prevented her from past pursuits.

Amber is the stay-at-home mom of a toddler and has almost completed her first year of online college courses. Working with the Parents as Teachers program offered by Panhandle Health District has brought a world of change to her family’s life, Amber said.

“They are not just there for the kids,” Amber said. “They support the parents, too.”

Now receiving regular therapy and support to improve her mental health, Amber attributes her participation in the program with “helping overcome the depression, anxiety and PTSD.”

Amber and her husband are launching a small painting company, but as the business is just getting off the ground, income is irregular. This has made the family less than stable.

“Our rent was increased this year, and bills have gone up,” Amber said. Whatever is left after bills are paid is all that is left for food, she said.

“So food is scarce,” Amber said.

That's why Amber is appealing to the Press Christmas for All program to help the family with grocery money.

“It’s a struggle, but we are coping at the moment with what we have,” Amber told Press Christmas For All. “My daughter is doing well; she’s hitting all the milestones.”

Despite mental health problems, Amber is determined to finish her education and provide a better future for her daughter as she continues to make gains in managing her own needs as well.

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.

Beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All 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.

Here are four ways to donate:

• 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.

Recent Donors

Betty & Robert Schwarzkopf; Bill Sturgeon; In Memory Of Bob; Joann & K.V. Nelson; Barbara Hudson; Annette Durkin; Michael & Linda Van Cheri; Richard & Candace White; Linda Lewis; Lois Johnson; In Memory Of Harry Johnson; Katherine Hennigan; Theresa Woods; Terrance Degrood; Beverly Wilson; M.G> Gallop; Barbara Brouillard; Douglas Weir; Dick & Rhonda Schultz; Larry & Laurie Schwenke; Jamie Danish; Kathy & Dave Kuntz

Over $500

John Oldfield; J.& L. Sharples