Everett event helps women in need
Published 10:38 pm Friday, May 9, 2008
EVERETT — Judy Hoff quit her job and sold her 2,800-square-foot house to follow her life’s calling.
Now she works out of a small office on Rucker Avenue where she organizes events, works with various community members and volunteers to help women find a shelter from a variety of abusive situations.
Some women are suffering from various addictions.
Others have been assaulted by their husband or boyfriend.
“Some arrive with nothing but the clothes on their backs — by themselves or with their children,” said Julie Dickhaut, spokeswoman for Queen, It’s a New Day, an outreach event that pampers homeless women.
One was a former Navy encryption officer. Another was a former executive secretary at an aircraft manufacturer.
“On one typical day, a woman walked in who had been severely beaten and hit in the chest by her partner,” said Hoff, founder of Queen, It’s a New Day.
A full-time volunteer, Hoff sold her home to raise money for her ministry and to be closer to the people she serves. A woman of many talents, she is also the president of Recovery For Life’s transitional housing on Wetmore Avenue.
There, women find Hoff and her volunteers who try to show their faith and provide a safe harbor that helps them set sail for recovery.
Queen, It’s a New Day started eight years ago, helping women like those who arrive at transitional housing and other programs in King, Snohomish and Skagit counties. It has grown into a two-day event.
The community outreach takes place at a local hotel twice a year, providing free career outfits, hairstyling and makeovers.
This year, the event has expanded to include an overnight hotel stay and vocational and educational counseling, life coaching, job skills and career seminars.
The ministry needs volunteers to step forward to pay for eight more rooms on Monday and Tuesday at the hotel for women who will be part of the program and is asking the community for help.
To pay for room at Embassy Suites in Lynnwood, call the hotel at 425-775-2500. A special rate of $150 will be charged. One room provides four women with a place to stay during the event.
Reporter Leita Hermanson Crossfield: 425-339-3449 or lcrossfield@heraldnet.com.
Queen, It’s a New Day
Time: Noon to 7 p.m
Date: Monday and Tuesday
Place: Embassy Suites, 20610 44th Ave. W., Lynnwood.
To help: To pay for a room, call 425-775-2500
