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.

Sobriety is something "Jenny" never thought she would acquire after spending most of her life in the depths of addiction.

"I now have over two years sober," she said. "Thanks to the drive of not wanting to die, the Lord and the Union Gospel Mission programs, I was able to get out of drug use."

A single mom of two, Jenny has regained custody of her 'tween children and, after years of homelessness, is excited to live in her own apartment.

"I owe it all to God, my savior and the UGM program," she said. "I have completely changed my life and become the person I was always meant to be."

Jenny's car is her livelihood, taking her and the kids to school, work, therapy, doctor's appointments and frequently between Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene. It's a good old car that has lasted a while, but a recent check-in with the mechanic brought to light repair needs that weren't in Jenny's budget — the transmission, front differential, radiator and power steering all needed servicing, and the car needed a brake flush, new tires and updated window tinting to safeguard against a violent ex-boyfriend.

With no child support and an annual income well below the federal poverty level, Press Christmas for All, Charity Reimagined and UGM were able to give this determined mom a hand fixing her car to keep the momentum going.

"I have used my story to give others hope and strength," Jenny said. "I will continue to share my story and try to reach as many people as I can."

Each year, Press readers donate generously to Press Christmas for All. 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, people with disabilities, veterans, the homeless and those with mental illnesses. Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working, but living in poverty.

Beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All keep their dignity 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

• Visit cdapress.com. Click on Christmas for All 2022 and make a secure, online donation.

• 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.

RECENT DONORS

Deborah McDermott and Warren Middlemist; Nancy Mertz; Anonymous; Anne & Jonathon Sedgwick; Anonymous; Corky and Judy Meyer; Miriam Owens on behalf of Ashton and Greyson Owens