An unexpected intervention by travel writer and television host Rick Steves has saved the Lynnwood Hygiene Center, a vital resource for the homeless community in Washington State. Just days before the center was set to close its doors for good, Steves purchased the property for $2.25 million, ensuring that it can continue to provide essential services such as warm showers, food, and clothing.
The center, which has operated rent-free since its inception in 2020, faced imminent closure due to the sale of the property it occupied. Sandra Mears, the executive director of the foundation managing the center, expressed her initial disbelief when she learned of the potential closure. “I was in disbelief,” Mears stated. “But I wouldn’t go down without a fight.”
In a last-ditch effort, Mears reached out for support from the community and potential benefactors, ultimately leading to a conversation with Steves. His commitment to the center not only brings relief to its staff but also to the approximately 45 individuals who rely on its services daily.
The center’s manager, Brett Barham, shared the impact of the center on its visitors. “I wish there was a place like this when I was out there,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of the facility in providing dignity and comfort to those in need. Regular patrons expressed their anxiety when news of the closure surfaced, unsure of where they would turn for essential services.
One of those patrons, Amber Mayor, described visiting the center almost every day with her family. They often use the facility as a safe refuge for several hours. “For your own self-worth, it’s so important,” she said. Mayor reflected on her devastation upon hearing of the center’s potential closure, admitting, “I cried. It was such a weight off my shoulders to know that we were still going to have this place.”
Steves, who has long been an advocate for social issues, characterized his acquisition of the center as “the most beautiful Christmas present (he) could have.” His philanthropic gesture has brought renewed hope to the community, underscoring the critical need for such organizations amidst increasing challenges faced by the homeless population.
The Lynnwood Hygiene Center operates Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter months, extending its hours to 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer. The center remains a beacon of hope, illustrating the profound impact of community support and individual generosity during difficult times.
As the center continues to serve its purpose, the local community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that this essential resource remains available to those who need it most. The ongoing commitment from individuals like Rick Steves highlights the importance of collective action in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
