A Labor of Love

When Linda Lederhos worked at the local health clinic years ago, she witnessed many low-income families who desperately needed help, especially during the holiday season. With a giving heart and eager to help those who needed it most, Lederhos began a program to distribute toys to bring joy to the children. This lasted three years, but when the toys ran out she could no longer continue her mission.

“I needed an avenue to get toys,” said Lederhos. “I had to come up with a way to fill the need.” She reached out to friends and inquired if they had gently used toys they could donate to her cause. Some donated the gently used toys and others purchased a new toy for her to distribute. And that was the beginning of the Care-N-Share program in Bonners Ferry over 30 years ago.

What started as a mission to help families over the holidays has evolved into a year-round effort. The need is great, and making a difference in the lives of others is important to Lederhos.

“We have helped supply toys and clothing to families that have lost their home in a fire. We have helped with medications, bedding and food needs,” shared Lederhos. “Our biggest need is always items for the older kids. Most people like to buy items for the younger children so anything a teenager would like is what we lack the most.”

To help raise money for their cause, Care-N-Share does one fundraising event per year, selling concessions at the annual Gun & Horn Show. But last December the Bonners Ferry High School students did a fundraiser at their Moose Madness event and presented Lederhos with a check for over $5,000; the largest donation in the history of Care-N-Share.

Care-N-Share is a nonprofit organization so all donations are tax deductible. Donations can be sent to Care-N-Share, 515014 Highway 95, Bonners Ferry, ID, 83805. They can also be dropped off at Wells Fargo Bank, Mountain West Bank, E. L. Internet or the Bamboo Room Craft Store. A person or group can also sponsor a child or family by calling 208.290.1483.

If you are a family in need of assistance from Care-N-Share, applications are due by November 30 and are available at the Panhandle Health Clinic or the Bamboo Room Craft Store. According to Lederhos, in order to qualify for services a family needs to be lower income or in a unique situation.

“We look at every application and take all requests in on review. We have been blessed by all the support throughout the years and 100 percent of our donations stay in town to help our local children and no money is spent on administration costs.”

Anyone with any questions can call Linda at 208.290.1483. Spread the joy this holiday season!

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