A new, warm blanket or some meat from a grocery store.

Those are the holiday wishes of one senior who is asking for help this year. That’s how he will spend a gift card from Christmas for All.

He is 81 and lives alone. Home health aides are his only companions.

His wife died seven years ago, after a long battle with cancer, one that drained whatever savings the couple had put away during their years of owning a small business.

His only child, a son, also died a few years ago, leaving this elder with no family to lean on for help.

One of his aides, who helped him apply for help from the holiday charity, said despite this man’s losses and loneliness, he’s never without a smile or kind word.

“He deserves a little Christmas joy. I really wish I could do more, but I have a hard time myself,” the caregiver said.

This is the 32nd year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of people like this during the holiday season.

The program helps everyone in need, including struggling young families, seniors, people with disabilities and mental illnesses. Many are alone, and despair is common.

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.

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.

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 are tax-deductible and 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 goo.gl/WospPG.

Recent donors:

Dan and Marilyn Roden; Nancy George; Lois Featherstone “In loving memory of David Featherstone”; Patrick and Renee Miller; Richard and Janet Erickson; Dorothy Clock; Gordon and Joann Longwell.