As part of the annual Press Christmas for All campaign, we share with readers the stories of those who have received help from the program. This is one of them.

“Stella,” a single mom of two, believes that one person can make a world of difference in someone else’s life.

She learned that as a volunteer for North Idaho CASA. Court-appointed special advocates like Stella are specially trained to investigate child protection cases, represent the best interests of abused or neglected children in court and help find them safe homes.

“Being a CASA, you’re advocating for the mental health and safety of a child,” she said. “It’s very much humbled me. It makes me a better mom. I appreciate the time with my kids.”

Stella, who left an abusive relationship herself several years ago, said she feels compassion for the parents of the children she works with, many of whom are struggling with substance abuse problems.

“The reason they’re in that situation in the first place is because they’re hurting,” she said. “They’re struggling. Nobody wants to get their kids taken away.”

Her experiences as an advocate and her determination to provide well for her children have inspired her to pursue a new career path. 

Stella recently completed an associate degree in business at North Idaho College and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Gonzaga University. After that, she plans to apply for law school.

Car troubles nearly halted Stella’s plans.

“I have to drive to and from Spokane,” she said. “My kids go to school in Post Falls. It’s our only transportation. Having a very reliable vehicle is important.”

In addition to being a full-time student, Stella works multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet for her family, with little to no child support.

She applied for help with vehicle repairs from Christmas for All through the North Idaho College Center for New Directions, one of the program's referring partners.

"This would help me improve my life and take away the stress of car maintenance. It would also show my kids that when you get knocked down you have to get back up and keep fighting for what you want," Stella wrote in her application. "I also love how my kids see me going to school and it sets such an example for them."

After a recommendation from NIC’s Center for New Directions, Christmas for All purchased new tires for Stella’s vehicle and paid for repairs.

This gift has made it possible for Stella to continue pursuing her degree and to make a difference in the lives of more local children.

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 including families with young children, the elderly, people with disabilities, veterans, the homeless and those with mental illnesses. Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working but unable to make ends meet, especially with the dramatic increase in the cost of living in Kootenai County.

Beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All keep their dignity while the community provides a hand-up to help get them back on their feet. They are asked to pitch in a little bit toward their award to remind them of their capacity and resourcefulness. The “co-pay” is small and calculated on a sliding scale of income, but ensures these neighbors actively participate in their award. 

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

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 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.

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