PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: Mom with disability needs boost

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.

Ever since a car accident left her paralyzed, “Brooke” has used a wheelchair to get around.

When rent doubled for their previous residence, Brooke and her two young children moved into a barn that had been converted into a home. They had to sleep in a tent temporarily while the place was under construction.

“You make the best of what you have,” she said.

Now they’re warm and have running water — but there’s one big problem. The toilet in their new home is on a pedestal and its height makes it extremely difficult for Brooke to use.

Having an accessible bathroom would greatly improve her quality of life and make things easier at home. But her income is modest, just enough to provide for her kids, and she needs help to pay the costs.

Brooke works as a paraprofessional in her local school district. She hopes to get her certification to become a teacher one day, but for now, she’s happy just to work with kids.

“I know I’m making a difference for them,” she said.

She’s also working hard to make sure her own children have what they need. Brooke has advocated for her 3-year-old son to receive early intervention supports for speech delay.

“We’ve had a lot of tears and frustrations, but we’ve had a lot of laughs together,” she said. “I just embrace it. It’s progress, not perfection.”

Brooke said she doesn’t need much in the way of material things to be happy, and she’s raising her children to be the same.

“I just want my kids to be content with what they have and humble,” she said.

Still, some help this Christmas would go a long way.

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

• Go to 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.