As part of the annual Press Christmas for All Campaign, we share with readers the stories of those applying for help. This is one of them.

Following a serious crash on an all-terrain vehicle when she was younger, “Suzanne,” 33, became addicted to pain medications. Her methods of coping spiraled out of control and eventually landed her in jail. Being incarcerated was an enormous wake-up call.

It was then that Suzanne said she “couldn’t go on living that way any longer.” She was accepted into treatment at Union Gospel Mission and has been diligently working in the program. She's maintained sobriety for over a year now.

“I’ve now got so many tools for a new life,” Suzanne said. “Choosing and keeping on this sobriety path, I am learning and looking at my past trauma and learning how to manage it.”

She's proud of making it at UGM for an entire year, she said.

She's also preparing to start a new job at Buck Knives in the very near future. The one area that's proving difficult for her is maintaining her vehicle. It has two broken motor mounts and needs to be aligned. That's not something she can manage on her $200-a-month-income.

Suzanne’s progress while at Union Gospel Mission has been exceptional, those who work with her say.

“Suzanne shows a quiet determination and strength on a daily basis,” a referring partner said. “She doesn’t operate out of anger or self-pity; she has come a long way and has impressed the staff here with her steady strong progress.”

A little bit of assistance from the community will help Suzanne continue on her pathway of success.

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.

Here are four ways to donate:

• Mail a check to Press Christmas for All, 215 N. Second St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 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 2021.
• 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.