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 a family — a mom, in particular — who refuses to give up.

Mental and physical health issues, intermittent homelessness, a past history of drug use and incarceration and overall instability underscored every aspect of this family of six.

"We have been through so much adversity," said the mom, "Heather." "We still need support and help to rebuild our foundation."

Previously a stay-at-home mom, Heather first reached out to Press Christmas for All when she and her family lost their home and were living out of vehicles or motels, crashing in loved ones' living rooms or using a storage facility to get a few hours of sleep. Her husband's business derailed with the COVID-19 pandemic, as did his health, and the couple picked up gig jobs where they could. The kids were in and out of foster care.

"I feel defeated," Heather said. "But I do know I have been fighting for my children. I haven't given up. I have been problem solving and working toward a better life. I am trying to find ways around the road blocks and the things that seem impossible to find a path that makes it possible."

Heather and her family have since found permanent housing, and she obtained a commercial driver's license so she can provide for her family.

"Although this journey has been so difficult, I have also learned so much," she said. "I think I have grown as a person because of God and because of the support from this community."

Although their needs are many, Heather was grateful for a few Super 1 Foods gift cards through Press Christmas for All, Charity Reimagined and the North Idaho College Center for New Directions to help with groceries so she and her family could allocate funds to other needs, such as gas and paying off bills.

Things are finally looking up.



"You don't have to be a victim to your past," Heather said. "You can apply yourself and change your situation. You don't have to be stuck in the system — it is possible to get out and have a good life."