EVERETT — The Hazel Miller Foundation is asking for the community to support the Jean Kim Foundation to help keep the doors open for south Snohomish County’s only hygiene center.
The owner of the hygiene center property is looking to sell for $2.5 million, said Sandra Mears, executive director of the Jean Kim Foundation, in an email to The Daily Herald. An anonymous donor has contributed $2 million, she said. Earlier this month, the Jean Kim Foundation announced the center would close its doors Dec. 12. Now, the center could stay open if the foundation bridges the $500,000 gap by the end of the year.
The Jean Kim Foundation’s hygiene center in Lynnwood provides free showers and restroom facilities for people experiencing homelessness. Since it opened in 2020, the hygiene center has provided 53,000 showers. The center also provides space for local providers to meet with people who are seeking social services.
“The Jean Kim Foundation plays an essential role in south Snohomish County, offering dignity, support, and hope to those who need it most,” said Shannon Burley, board chair for the Hazel Miller Foundation, in a press release Monday. “We hope the community will come together during this critical moment to ensure their programs continue for years to come.”
The Hazel Miller Foundation donated $50,000 to the $500,000 goal.
The site at 19726 64th Ave. W. used to be an emissions testing facility owned by Agbar Technologies. In 2020, Lynnwood Land LLC bought the property for $1.4 million. In a Nov. 10 press release, Mears thanked Jeffrey Butler with Lynnwood Land LLC, who had allowed the Jean Kim Foundation to use the space rent free.
“I’ve been humbled by the support of community partners, volunteers, and faith communities, and I’m in awe of the resiliency of our unhoused guests who face multiple barriers,” Mears said in the Monday release. “A shower, hot meal, clothing, and access to services lead to transformation and an increased sense of self. No gift is too small as we work together to secure the future of the Hygiene Center.”
Community members looking to donate can find the link on the Jean Kim Foundation website or contact Mears at sandra.mears@jeankimfoundation.org or 564-202-7452.
Jenna Peterson: 425-339-3486; jenna.peterson@heraldnet.com; X: @jennarpetersonn.
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