Mom of three perseveres after breakup, job loss

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

A special piece of local history was gone forever when the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse burned down in September 2024.

Along with the historical loss, its employees also lost their jobs.

"Rosie" had been at Wolf Lodge 10 years when it was destroyed. This was one of many heartaches she experienced that year. Her significant other left her and her three children without warning and she broke her tailbone shortly after the restaurant burned down.

Financial, mental, physical and emotional strain have been heavy on Rosie and her family, but Rosie is not giving up. She is striving to improve her circumstances. She graduated with an associate degree in June, earned her commercial driver's license and she is actively involved in North Idaho College's nursing program, and doing quite well.

"Looking ahead, my dreams are centered around achieving stability and independence for my family," Rosie told Press Christmas for All. "I want to move beyond relying on state assistance and become financially self-sufficient, allowing me to invest in my future and that of my children."

Press Christmas for All and NIC's Center for New Directions stepped in to award Rosie $2,400 to cover two months' rent when money was tight.

Rosie is proud to have survived a difficult breakup, earn good grades in school and provide a good home for her kids.

Each year, Press readers donate to Press Christmas for All. Every penny raised is distributed to Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp.     

The gift recipients are our neighbors who are struggling, including the elderly, people with disabilities, veterans, the homeless 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 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.