PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: After homelessness, single mom rises above

As part of the annual Press Christmas for All campaign, we share with readers the stories of those who have received help from the program. This is one of them. 

After working hard to overcome mental health struggles and addiction, Brittany Selle, 38, was in a stable place with her five children and her longtime partner. Then, nearly three years ago, her world flipped on its head.

“Unfortunately, while I remained sober, he succumbed to his addiction issues,” she said, referring to her former partner. 

Selle, who had been a stay-at-home mom, found herself homeless with her children. She knew she had to take control of her future. 

“I wanted to build a life for me and my kids that no one could take from me,” she said. “I was tired of being dependent on others.” 

The prospect of returning to school was an intimidating one. Then, she found the Center for New Directions at North Idaho College, which helps single parents, displaced homemakers and career pioneers as they pursue their education. 

“Something in my heart, maybe a higher power, told me it was time,” she said. “I was still waiting for housing to line up. But when I sat down with (CND Director Louisa Rogers), she helped me realize that if I were to invest in myself and my future, a lot of things would likely fall into place.” 

Selle earned an associate degree in social work from NIC last spring and is working toward a bachelor’s degree at Lewis-Clark State College. She’s set to graduate in the spring and has found her passion in social work. 

“It’s come full circle,” she said. “I want to help other women, especially single moms.” 

Selle’s achievements have also inspired her kids. Her oldest child, 18-year-old Abigail, graduated from Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy with a 4.0 GPA and earned a full scholarship to Colby College in Maine. 

“She’s told me that my decision to go back to school was really motivational for her in pursuing her own educational goals,” Selle said. “That’s the best compliment I could ever get as a mom.” 

Meanwhile, 17-year-old Liam recently won first place in a drama competition. Silas and Roan, ages 14 and 10, are excelling in school. The family’s youngest child, 3-year-old Iver, has autism and is thriving in different therapies. 

“He’s an amazing kid,” Selle said. “A joy and a light.” 

While looking ahead to her future, Selle reflected on what it took for her to achieve these successes. 

“The fact that I’m ready to graduate and we have all these beautiful opportunities at our fingertips is not something I came by on my own,” she said. “In order to break through some of the barriers and obstacles, I needed help. We want to rise above the need to survive or be dependent.” 

She recalled a time in 2022 when her family’s only vehicle broke down and the community’s support saved her from getting knocked off course. 

“I had no idea what I was going to do,” she said. “It was just a prayer on the wind.” 

Rogers suggested that Selle apply for help from Press Christmas for All. Through the program, community donations helped pay the $1,500 repair bill and get Selle’s car back on the road. 

“It literally saved my life,” she said. 

Selle said she admires Christmas for All’s approach to providing assistance. 

“They believe in giving people a step up, but not a handout,” she said. “That has offered me the ability to be accountable while removing the shame of needing help as I reach for my higher goals. We can’t get there alone. We need 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 and make a secure online donation. 

• Drop off your check at The Press weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 215 N. Second St. in downtown Coeur d'Alene. 

A heartfelt thanks to our recent donors

Robert E Ries, Dan & Linda Green, Howie & Jennifer Stalwick, Jean & Ronald Voights, Anonymous from Fernan Lake Village, Richard & Janis Nielsen, Cricket Pierce, Ned & Diane Tower, Susan Thilo, Holly Coles, Louisa Wilkinson, JoAnn Solberg, Fred Ritzheimer, Van Cheri, Scott Richter, John & Paula Neils, In Memory of Arlene Lund, Rae & Steven Carnahan, Doug & Peggy Albertson, Thomas & Carol Saathoff, Joy Gerlach, Gayle & Thomas Anthony, Patricia Polland, Valerie Devaleria & James Gerecke, Jack Mauch & Liese Dixon