PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL Mom of six appreciates the help

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. 

Domestic violence, mental illness, substance abuse, incarceration and homelessness have peppered the lives of "Miley" and her six children.

One of Miley's children, who has struggled with mental health and drugs, is currently incarcerated for stealing a vehicle and evading police. Many of her children have reported being harmed by her ex-husband.

"Navigating the court system with my son and standing up for myself and my other children" has been a great accomplishment, Miley said, as well as putting her son first "by understanding that commitment is actually the best thing he can do for himself, even if he doesn't see it right now."

In 2021, Miley was encouraged to go back to school. She has worked on housing with Family Promise and took a financial literacy course with Charity Reimagined and the North Idaho College Center for New Directions at the Kroc Center.

With the help of business partner Lake City Auto Repair, Press Christmas for All awarded car repairs to Miley to ensure she has safe transportation as she and her children travel to school, work and appointments.

"I remain so thankful for the support of Charity Reimagined over the past three years," Miley said. "Although sometimes it feels like I have been stuck, I remind myself that compared to where I began, my life does look so different. I am no longer homeless; I have a wonderful community through the Center for New Directions and NIC. I have a job with benefits, and I am slowly working toward my degree. Even if it is slow, I am doing it."

Each year, Press readers generously donate to Press Christmas for All. Every penny raised goes to Kootenai County residents. The Hagadone Corp covers all overhead costs.   

The gift recipients are our neighbors who are struggling, including seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, people experiencing homelessness 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 and make a secure online donation.

• Drop off your check at The Press weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 215 N. Second St. in downtown Coeur d'Alene.