As part of the annual Press Christmas for All Campaign, we share with readers the stories of the people applying for help. Here’s one of them.

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All this single mom wants for Christmas is the gift of sight.

When her glasses broke, “Ann,” a mom of two, couldn’t afford to replace them.

“My kids needed essentials more than I needed glasses,” she said.

But Ann’s vision is so poor that, without glasses or contacts, daily activities like driving, performing tasks at work and even caring for her kids become a challenge.

Ann is proud of her achievements this year — purchasing her own car and getting a job that allows her to provide for her two children. But her ability to work and take care of her family is in jeopardy as long as she can’t see.

“I really love my job and want to do my best to provide for my two kids, so they know Mom always did her best for them,” she said.

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This is the 34th year Press Christmas for All has worked to brighten the lives of Kootenai County residents in need. Each year, Press readers donate generously to the program. Every penny raised is distributed to Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp.

The gift recipients are our neighbors who are struggling, including the elderly, disabled, homeless and mentally ill. Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working, but living near or below the poverty level.

The beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All are going to keep their dignity intact while the community provides a hand up to help get them back on their feet.

Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from CharityReimagined.Org. It is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers.

With a shorter holiday giving season than usual, please make your donation sooner than later. Here are four ways to do it:

- Mail a check to Press Christmas for All, 215 N. Second St., Coeur d’Alene, 83814

- Call The Press and make a secure credit card donation over the phone: 208-664-8176

- Go to cdapress.com. Click on the MENU button, then click on Christmas for All 2019.

- Drop off your check at The Press weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.: 215 N. Second St. in downtown Coeur d’Alene.