The true spirit of the season

The past few days have tested North Idaho in ways few of us expected. Brutal weather and severe flooding have turned what should feel like a festive holiday season into something more like the final stretch of a marathon, exhausting, relentless, and hard to push through. 

But here’s the truth: no one should have to push through alone. 

Winter is already harsh for many. Shorter days, colder nights, and isolation can weigh heavily on mental health. Add flooding, property damage, and uncertainty, and the burden becomes overwhelming for some. 

Checking on your friends and neighbors isn’t just a nice gesture; it can save lives. Sometimes, all it takes is a phone call or a knock on the door to remind someone they’re not forgotten. Other times, it means making sure they have food, heat, and basic supplies. And in the most complex cases, it might mean rolling up your sleeves to help with cleanup or repairs. 

Over the past few days, we’ve seen incredible examples of this community spirit: neighbors stabling horses, clearing debris, and making sure families have a safe place to stay. That’s who we are in North Idaho, and that’s what we need to keep doing. 

With more storms on the horizon and the holidays just days away, let’s double down on what makes this community strong. Here are a few ways you can help right now: 

Check in daily on someone who lives alone or is elderly; Offer essentials like food, water, and blankets to those in need; Volunteer your time for cleanup efforts or local shelters; Share resources like mental health hotlines or community support groups; Create a neighborhood network, a group chat, or a phone tree to stay connected. 

The holidays are about giving, and sometimes the greatest gift is simply showing up. Let’s make sure no one faces this season alone.