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

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In many ways, this mom’s story is typical. Her recovery has been anything but.

“Helen” grew up in a broken home. One of her parents was addicted to drugs. Her other parent was loving but not a dominant influence during her teen years.

Helen used and sold drugs. At one point, she was arrested for dealing.

She went on to have a son, but her relationship with the boy’s father fell apart. Later, her brother’s death was a devastating blow. Grief over broken and lost relationships pushed Helen to the breaking point.

Then her life changed.

When Helen went to Real Life Ministries for food, she received a devotional book. She began to read the book and knew she needed to find God.

Helen entered the recovery program at Union Gospel Mission and began doing the hard work to turn her life around.

“She has enormous determination and is highly intelligent and resilient,” said Linda Cook, Community Engagement Coordinator for the UGM Center in Coeur d’Alene.

Since entering the program, Helen has tackled her classes with “courage and strength.” Her willingness to be transparent and responsible for her misdirection in life has been key to her success.

“Although she was having to face extremely difficult facts, of people who failed her and her own failings, she kept going,” Linda said.

Helen has utilized the tools offered to her by UGM and transformed her life. She’s employed and provides a stable home for herself and her son, who is thriving.

“She is a model for the women here at UGM, and those of us who know her are honored to be a part of her life,” Linda said.

Assistance from Press Christmas for All would help her maintain her stability.

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.