Offering comfort in times of grief

EVERETT — A choir concert is scheduled next month to benefit The Widows Project, a new nonprofit based in Everett.

Bible study led the founder, Rolland Wright, 64, to want to do more for others, he said. The Book of James speaks about looking after widows and orphans.

There aren’t many community organizations around for supporting widows, he said. He uses the term to describe men and women who have lost a spouse.

Both face financial and emotional needs in addition to their grief, Wright said.

“We’re trying to put a face on widowhood,” he said.

The group’s first event, a luncheon in February, drew about 30 people. The crowd was split between widows and their supporters, such as friends, family and pastors. A gathering at an AquaSox game followed in July. The concert will be the third major event, Wright said.

“It would be a great way to launch the holidays,” he said, adding that this time of year can be challenging for people in mourning.

The concert, featuring choir Breath of Aire, is set for 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Historic Everett Theatre. Tickets are $11 for seniors and $16 for everyone else. Widows have free admission.

Proceeds will be used to fund future events and expand programs, Wright said. The group offers weekly grief support services near Silver Lake. He also hopes to build a directory of vetted resources.

The Widows Project is a faith-based organization that welcomes everyone, he said. Most folks in the group so far are between 50 and 70 years old. Membership is free.

More volunteers are needed, especially those who can build partnerships with businesses, churches and other groups, he said.

For more information, or to buy concert tickets, go to “The Widows Project” on Facebook or thewidowsproject.org, or call 844-494-3697.

Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @rikkiking.