PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL Better vision for a better future

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 many years of struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, “Henry” has chosen a new path.

Henry has been sober since March of last year and is now engaged in Mental Health Court, a voluntary, post-conviction diversion program for people on supervised probation and who live with severe and persistent mental illness.

Through MHC, Henry is learning healthy ways of coping with trauma, which has followed him since he was only three years old.  

“He is working hard to change his patterns and habits,” said Mary Wolfinger with MHC. “He’s learning and applying the skills he’s gained.” 

However, the reading material that MHC entails was becoming an obstacle for Henry, who is visually impaired.  

“Glasses are essential to complete the materials for the visually impaired,” his applicant story reads.  

Wolfinger connected Henry to Press Christmas for All, which was able to assist him in getting an eye exam and glasses from an area optometrist.  

Henry’s glasses are a critical tool for his success in MHC, which has proliferated into positive change in other areas of his life.  

“He is repairing family relationships and making amends,” his applicant story reads. “He is happy to be back at work and contributing again.” 

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.