PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: Mom changes life for daughter

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.

“Amelia” struggled with substance abuse until she learned she was pregnant with her daughter — just two months before the baby was due.

The idea of being a mom was new and unexpected, but Amelia was determined to prepare as best she could.

She quickly entered a treatment program to get sober. She got a second job, began studying for her GED and enrolled in a parenting class offered by Panhandle Health District.

These days, Amelia is struggling to make ends meet as a single mom. Finding stable housing is a challenge.

“I’m a caregiver and those wages aren’t very high,” she said. “Inflation goes up, but my wages don’t go up.”

Her daughter’s father provides no financial support.

“Sometimes it’s hard to get food,” she said.

Amelia’s focus is on providing stability for her 2-year-old daughter. The little girl attends an early childhood learning program, where she’s learning English, Spanish and the Coeur d’Alene tribal language.

“It’s crazy how smart she’s getting,” Amelia said.

Though she’s proud to discuss her daughter, Amelia finds it hard to talk about herself and how she’s shouldering her burdens alone.

“It’s a roller coaster,” she said, fighting tears. “Life is hard. Being a parent is hard, especially alone. But I’m working on it still.”

Last year, Christmas for All provided Amelia with gift cards so she could buy groceries and free up some of her limited income for other bills.

This holiday season, Amelia’s family and other families like hers can still use help from their community.

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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