Letter from the Publisher

Dear Readers, Subscribers and Friends of the Coeur d'Alene Press,

Every fall, as the mornings turn crisp and our community begins preparing for the holidays, something remarkable happens in Kootenai County. We don’t just talk about generosity — we live it. 

For nearly 40 years, Christmas for All has been a testament to what happens when a community decides that no neighbor should face hardship alone. Since 1985, this program has been a resource for those navigating difficult times. And starting in 2019, Christmas for All went deeper to support families on the edge of eviction, parents who can’t afford car repairs to get to work, seniors who must choose between heat and medication, and many single moms seeking an education or gainful employment to rise out of poverty. 

While Christmas for All remains the proud name of this long-standing community tradition, those who help administer the program — including our team at the Press, Charity Reimagined and dozens of referring partners — often refer to it internally as “Christmas for All — Year.” It’s our way of recognizing that the compassion of our donors now extends far beyond the month of December. Because of your generosity, we can provide that same “hand up” year-round — because cars to get to and from work don’t break down just during the holidays.

The numbers tell a powerful story about how those funds have been used so far this year:

• 37% of awards supported auto repairs, tires and fuel assistance — helping individuals keep their jobs and independence.

• 18% provided rent and utility relief, ensuring local families remain safe and warm.

• 15% went toward dental, vision and hearing care, restoring both health and dignity.

• 10% assisted with mental and physical health services, from counseling to rehabilitation support.

• 6% helped furnish homes for those starting over.

• 5% covered childcare needs. 

• 3% supported education and technology.

Each percentage represents real people — neighbors who are working hard to rebuild, and who often send us heartfelt notes of gratitude months after receiving help.

Starting this week, and continuing through Thanksgiving, we’ll publish a series of stories that highlight the incredible work being done by our Referring Partners — nonprofits and agencies who help us identify those in need, doing everything they can to rise out of poverty. Their dedication is the connective tissue that makes Christmas for All such a trusted and enduring force for good.

Then, on Thanksgiving Day, we’ll formally launch our 2025 Christmas for All campaign — a chance once again for this generous community to rally around its own.

Until then, I invite you to read these upcoming stories with pride. Every act of kindness, every check written and every volunteer hour given makes our region stronger. And that, more than anything, is what the spirit of Christmas for All is genuinely about.

Clint Schroeder

President and Executive Publisher

Hagadone Newspaper and Media Groups