As part of the annual Press Christmas for All campaign, we share with readers the stories of those applying for help.

This is the story of "Brandy," a North Idaho born-and-raised mother of a baby girl who has overcome a traumatic upbringing to forge ahead with a healthy, happy life with her partner and their child.

"I've had a lot of challenges in my life," Brandy said. "But I've always been pretty good at finding a solution."

Brandy has long struggled with mental health disabilities. Pregnancy was a difficult journey as her medications had to be changed and she fought to maintain mental and emotional stability.

"I've experienced a lot of trauma in my life," she said. "Therapy for the past six years has given me the tools to get my life back on track."

Brandy is unable to work because of her disabilities, but her partner works full time. Earlier this year, they were given a 30-day notice when the owners of their rental home sold the property. Finding affordable housing was not an easy task.

"Our biggest challenge is being able to afford a place to live in this beautiful area I was born in as a low-income family," Brandy said.

Brandy was resourceful in finding an apartment, even though it meant giving away her beloved chickens. Paying the deposit and the first month's rent completely wiped out their bank account. They could barely stay on top of their bills.

"We will make it work with just a little help," she said. "I just want a safe place for my child."



Brandy has been involved with Panhandle Health District since she was first pregnant. With Panhandle's support and a referral, as well as the benevolence of donors in the community, Charity Reimagined and Press Christmas for All awarded Brandy grocery gift cards to give her family some respite from the barrage of bills so they can catch up and focus on what matters — each other.