PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL 'I've always been able to count on Christmas for All'

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. 

Medical bills exacerbated an already challenging time for "Michelle."

In her early 60s, Michelle works to provide for herself. She pays her own rent, manages struggles with mental health and focuses on her family. She doesn't ask for help from others, and she doesn't let her health situation get her down. She also recently secured a room in a group home after living in her car.

"She’s just the sweetest lady," Press Christmas for All referring partner and St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho social services manager Annie Parker said Tuesday. "She's so grateful."

Michelle recently underwent hip surgery and brain surgery. She recovered, but then her car began to break down. The necessary repairs were beyond the scope of her sons, who usually help her with vehicle maintenance. She needs reliable transportation to travel to doctor appointments and sessions with specialists.

"A window was broken out and all kinds of things," Parker said. "We just sprang into action and did the application for her so if she needed to, she could get to Seattle and have her son drive her."

Living on Social Security of less than $700 a month makes for a tight budget, especially as medical and vehicle bills pile up. 

“Having that car was just crucial, and there are no other options in town," Parker said. "You could try calling a couple churches, get them to pitch in $50, but nobody else had any funding."

Press Christmas for All awarded Michelle car repairs conducted by business partner Lake City Auto Care.

"Being part of a community charity means more to us than giving support; it’s about showing up for the people and neighbors that have supported our business along the way," Lake City Auto Care owner Nicole Prickett said. "We’re proud to be involved in a cause that makes a real difference in our wonderful community, and allows us to give back with purpose, gratitude and heart." 

Parker said Michelle is now on track to find permanent housing and has flourished since getting off the streets.

"She's been down a couple times, but she just keeps bouncing back, helping the next person who moves in, taking them under her wing," Parker said. "We’re just super proud of her."

A big part of that success is because of Press Christmas for All and its many generous supporters.

"I've always been able to count on Christmas for All," Parker said. "She was going to die out there. She got housing, got her car repaired. It's like watering a flower. She's doing so great because of the community."

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.

A heartfelt thanks to our recent donors

Cecil and Loretta Zimmerman, In memory of Ron Estep, Tony Stewart, Paul and Susie Courpet, Don and Sharmon Schmitt

Over $500

John and Lea Williams, Donald Smock, Stephanie Snook and Scott Forssell, Connie Lutsenhizer