"This is the hardest year of my life," a grief-stricken woman shared with Press Christmas for All.

She was taking care of her elderly parents, both with dementia. Then her father died, leaving her with the responsibility of caring for her mom with fewer financial resources and even more heartache. She’s struggling to pay for bills, food and the basics of caring for her ailing mother.

It's a dark time for this daughter, who is feeling low and lost. Assistance from Christmas for All might bring her a bit of much-needed Christmas cheer.

"It's hard without my father," she said. "It is a sad holiday, and maybe my mom's last. I feel all alone this holiday."

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: Ted Carneiro; David and Tara Flores; Steven and Roberta Worle; Adrian and Gertrude Bogers; James Westerberg; Anonymous; Richard and Claudia Phenneger; In memory of Mae and Larry Hanley, from Fern and Don Johnston; Lake Villa Apartments community via its holiday gathering collection.