PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL Finally, a home

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. 

Homeless at 80 years old, "Gladys" found herself alone and living in her car.

The North Idaho winters have not been kind to her. She struggled to maintain her desired level of health. Her closest relative is a brother who lives on the East Coast.

Gladys spent a lot of time at the Kroc Center, a Press Christmas for All referring partner.

"Friends of Gladys' marvel at her resilience," referring partners shared in her Press Christmas for All applicant story. "Despite being homeless, she participates in all things Kroc. She climbed a rock wall in her 70s and learned how to swim in her 80s. She is so very proud of these accomplishments."

Gladys wished to live at Orchard Ridge Assisted Living.

"She loves helping others and firmly believes that a more stable living environment will enable her to do this, plus she will develop a sense of community with others at Orchard Ridge," her applicant story reads.

While seeking housing, it was discovered she had several outstanding debts that had accrued over the years. She didn't know about any of them.

Press Christmas for All and the Kroc Center helped Gladys pay off those outstanding debts. Christmas for All also paid for her to stay in a motel for two weeks during the winter while her housing was being secured.

"This award has given me the ability to have a home, which I am now happily moved into," Gladys said. "I now can live somewhere for the rest of my life that I feel safe and good about."

She continues to work with Kroc staff on monthly budgeting as she enjoys finally living in a safe and permanent home. Gladys said she wants to thank everyone who was involved in helping her.

"This has been an amazing, eye-opening and heartwarming experience," she said. "It helped me to learn about Charity Reimagined and the work they do."

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.