CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: Mom overcomes mental, monetary challenges
Even though money is tight, "Juno" is pleased to announce she and her four girls have a roof over their heads after being homeless for five months.
"We got blessed with an apartment, just before school started," Juno said Friday.
It's nothing glamorous, but it's comfortable, the single mom said, and her girls are happy.
"They're doing really well," she said.
Juno is doing well too, even after suffering a mental break that forced her to quit the job she loved. She does what she can to make ends meet while supporting her large family on a disability income.
"Things are tight," she said. "There’s no room for extras or anything."
Juno graduated from the Union Gospel Mission's Life Recovery program in 2022 and attends support groups to help with her budgeting. She is still working to improve her financial situation.
"She has custody of her four girls and strives to care for them with little extra support," UGM Aftercare coordinator Kirsten Ridgewell shared with The Press.
When Juno's minivan kept getting stuck in the snow last winter, Ridgewell recommended she connect with Press Christmas for All to see if the program could help. She was awarded new snow tires, which made sure she and her daughters would be able to safely get around on slick and snowy roads.
"They are working amazing and I’m still using them today," Juno said.
She said she thought it was amazing when she found out Press Christmas for All had transitioned into a program that could offer assistance throughout the year and make even bigger impacts on those it serves.
"People need help year-round. It's not just a Christmas thing," Juno said. "I was grateful I was able to use that help when I needed it the most.
"I appreciate everything you guys have done for us and continue to do for the community," she continued.
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Each year, Press readers generously donate 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 including families with young children, the elderly, people with disabilities, veterans, the homeless and those with mental illnesses. Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working but unable to make ends meet, especially with the dramatic increase in the cost of living in Kootenai County.
Beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All keep their dignity while the community provides a hand-up to help get them back on their feet. They are asked to pitch in a little bit toward their award to remind them of their capacity and resourcefulness. The “co-pay” is small and calculated on a sliding scale of income, but ensures these neighbors actively participate in their award.
Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from CharityReimagined.Org. Christmas for All is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
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 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.