PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: Just a little food, warmth, kindness needed

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

This is the story of a couple — "Sam" and "Brett" — who never expected to be parents, but were blessed with an unexpected arrival that set them on an uncertain path while living in an RV and navigating North Idaho's housing crisis.

"I was told I would never have children," Sam said. "At six months we found out we were pregnant. Our world flipped upside down."

Sam and Brett were working full time when they married in 2014. They soon moved into their RV to save money for a house after a bad rental situation.

The house fell through and the market went crazy, but they were still OK. Now, with a baby in the picture, things are tough.

"We chose to keep me home to try to save money because of the cost of child care," Sam said.

Being down to one income and without a need for two vehicles, they sold Sam's car to cover expenses, but they continue to struggle.

"Our biggest challenge is making ends meet for groceries and propane," Sam said. "Propane is our main source of heat with our RV. With winter here, we are stressed."

Sam and Brett have paid off what debts they could and have maintained their RV to the best of their ability. They're OK raising a healthy baby in their RV home, they just need a little help.

By connecting with Press Christmas for All, Charity Reimagined and Panhandle Health District, this little family was awarded propane gift cards and food gift cards to assist them with their humble needs to keep their family warm and fed this winter.

Each year, Press readers donate generously to Press Christmas for All. 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, people with disabilities, veterans, the homeless and those with mental illnesses. Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working, but living in poverty.

Beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All keep their dignity 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, ID 83814.

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

• Visit cdapress.com. Click on Christmas for All 2022 and make a secure, online donation.

• 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.

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