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 bike is not just a mode of transportation but a lifeline, especially for those with mental health challenges who don’t have the ability or means to drive.

“Josiah,” 41, struggled with undiagnosed mental illness for many years, beginning when he was 18. He was on his own for a while, but had to move in with family when he was diagnosed with a mental illness. He depended on his family to get him where he needed to go.

Recently, Josiah moved to Trinity Group Homes, a nonprofit that provides safe, affordable housing and other resources for adults with mental health challenges. Josiah has enjoyed a more independent lifestyle; however, transportation became an issue.

In partnership with Two Wheeler and Ski Dealer in Hayden, Christmas for All awarded Josiah a bike and safety accessories to boost his autonomy.

“We got him a nice little bike to get around,” said Brenda Christensen, an owner of Two Wheeler. “We got him some lights and a helmet and a lock to keep him safe.”

With a proper diagnosis, Josiah is finally getting the medical treatment and therapy that he needs as he works on coping skills. He hopes to be fully independent someday.

Now that Josiah has a bike and all the gear, he can get to his appointments and sessions on his own, and enjoy fresh air and exercise in the process.

“We’re grateful to get to help any of these people who find themselves on tough times, and I really love what Charity Reimagined is doing,” Christensen said.

Christensen said she has always been a supporter of Press Christmas for All and appreciated it even more when the program was overhauled in 2019, in partnership with Charity Reimagined, to more thoughtfully deploy resources to make a significant impact on the lives of community members in need.

“It really impressed me to see that our community is not just giving a handout but really willing to help these people,” she said.

The Two Wheeler and Ski Dealer has been in the community for nearly 36 years. It’s the sole reason the business exists, Christensen said.

“To be able to give back to someone who’s going through hard times right now, I find it very rewarding,” she said. “I find the people I’ve worked with through Charity Reimagined, their passion and their desire to help is somewhat addictive. You see what they’re doing, you see the people they’re working with who are finding these people in hard times and finding solutions to their problems.”

Christensen said the gift of something like a bike is a tool that can change lives for those in need.

“I hope it’s just a stepping stone that gets them out of their situation and gets them to be productive members of our society,” she said.

Each year, Press readers donate to Press Christmas for All. Every penny raised benefits Kootenai County residents. The Hagadone Corp covers 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 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.