This family has suffered the majority of the year after the dad was injured this spring.

"Since Easter, it has been a downhill shoot to the worst year ever," the mom told Press Christmas for All. "The provider for our family got hurt Easter morning and it has changed our lives."

With no steady income, the mom and dad had no way of providing any kind of birthdays for their two young boys this year. They're still not in a position to spend money on things other than bills and basic needs, and even those are tough to cover.

"We struggle every day with living expenses," the mom said. "We want to give the boys a Christ-mas. We haven't had good luck so far, so we're asking for a little help to lift our spirits."

She said help from Press Christmas for All a couple years ago made a world of difference for their family.

"You have no idea what relief you allowed me to have and the smiles on my family's faces," the mom said. "You all bring so much joy to so many families. Thank you all and I hope you have a merry Christmas."

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: Charles and Judith Farrey; Steve and Connie Wesson; Ernest and Vera Klemm; Anonymous; Pam Ness; Charles Bean & Associates; Laura Augusta; Carol Taylor; Larry and Sharon Strobel; Idaho Pi Master Chaper Beta Sigma Phi; Ken and Dee Dee Koep; Jack and Cherie Shinn; Leland and Lyndell Erwin; Charles and Marialyce Miller.