Minimum wage at a part-time job just isn't cutting it for this mother of two teens and a 'tween.

Single and without child support coming from the kids' dad, she's buried under the weight of supporting the four of them on her meager income.

"I haven't received child support in over four years," she said, explaining that only twice in that time has her children's father stepped in to help them with food, clothing or money.

She wasn't able to find a job for a while, but she is incredibly grateful that she recently found employment.

"I just thank God that someone finally hired me," she said.

This mom is asking Press Christmas for all For help because she has no extra money or support to give her kiddos much of a Christmas this year.

They're broke, but it's not the kids' fault.

"My kids are really good kids and they deserve to have a good Christmas," she said. "If you could help me make that possible for them, that would be so wonderful and appreciated."

This is the 31st year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of Kootenai County residents in need during the holiday season.

Each year, Press readers donate generously to the program. The money collected is distributed in the form of gift cards to those who might not otherwise be able to put a holiday meal on the table or purchase a small gift for a child. The program helps everyone in need, including struggling young families, seniors, people with disabilities and mental illnesses. Many are alone, and despair is a common factor.

Through Christmas for All, these less fortunate neighbors feel the compassion of a caring community during what can be a very difficult time of year for them.

Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. It is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers at The Hagadone Corp., the Coeur d’Alene Press and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.

Every penny raised is distributed to needy Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp. and the volunteers at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.

Donations can be made by dropping off or mailing a check to: Press Christmas for All, 215 Second St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

Online donations can be made by visiting cdapress.com/christmas_for_all.

Donations are also accepted by phone. Call (208) 664-8176 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to use a credit card to contribute.

Recent donors: Lou Teyler; Anonymous, in loving memory of Betty and Mary Fields; Cecil and Mary Alice Hathaway; Raymond Fischer; Gayle and Thomas Anthony; Anonymous; Ken and Sherry Beno; Terry and Sharon Edelblute; Camille Beebe; Mac and Shirley McCormack; Lennis McLeod; Larry and Karen Groscost; Carla Hauer; David and Mardell Ackerman; Anonymous; Catherine Tinder; Edith Helfer; Clyde Ylitalo; Doris Bartlett; Jean and Ronald Voights; Gene Pierson; Alan and Mary Pettit; Fred and Lind Quigley.