PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: A 'hand up' for a man that dreams of helping others

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

After facing unimaginable challenges, “Derek” has rebuilt his life.

A decade ago, he suffered burns on 30% of his body. He was homeless for a time during the COVID-19 pandemic after relapsing at the end of his marriage. He still copes with post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression and anxiety.

But today, Derek is over two years clean, employed and planning to enroll in school.

“I’ve stayed the course with my sobriety and mental and physical issues,” he said.

Derek also has big plans for his future.

“In one year, I see myself living in my own place, with my children back in my life, and a career helping others,” he explained.

Derek has already taken the initiative and invested in himself, paying out of pocket for his Peer Behavior Specialist Certification, which did not go unnoticed by Chris Green with Heritage Health’s Street Medicine Outreach.  

“He has made greater progress and is thriving at a greater rate than any other client with similar severe and persistent mental illness,” Green said. "He's found employment and has never missed a session in his over a year in recovery. 

Green referred Derek to Press Christmas for All, which provided him with a laptop, a vital tool for his academic success. What’s more, Idaho Launch is covering 80% of his tuition.  

Derek is well on his way to becoming a certified Peer Support Specialist. He intends to have a bachelor’s degree in social work or psychology in five years.  

“I will not stop continuing my self-improvement, with God’s help,” he said. “I’m so grateful for the help I’ve received. It’s helping me build a life I’m proud of.” 

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.