South Snohomish Countys only hygiene center will close its doors soon. Heres what we know so far

The Jean Kim Foundation's Hygiene Center in Lynnwood will officially close on December 12, ending its five-year run of providing essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Since its inception, the center has delivered over 51,000 showers and facilitated access to social services for those in need. A farewell event is scheduled for the closing day, which will include a free raffle and thank-you remarks to community partners and volunteers. Board member Ted Haase highlighted the importance of the center's partnerships with local organizations like MercyWatch and Edmonds Food Bank. The center, which operated rent-free in a building previously used for emissions testing, is now searching for new host sites to continue its mission.

The closure follows a statement indicating that circumstances beyond the foundation's control led to this decision. The Verdant Health Commission has played a crucial role in funding the foundation's initiatives. Founded in 2015 using funds from the late Rev. Dr. Jean Kim's birthday, the foundation aims to maintain its community support amidst the transition.