In the heart of Snohomish County, a beacon of hope shines for women and children in need. Esther’s Place, a vital initiative of the Hoff Foundation, is dedicated to breaking the cycles of homelessness, abuse, addiction, and trauma. Through their unwavering commitment, they provide a safe haven and essential resources, empowering women to rebuild their lives and reclaim their dignity. 

The inspiration behind Esther’s Place stemmed from a powerful moment. One cold, rainy night, founder Judy encountered a woman climbing into a dumpster. When asked why, the woman explained she was seeking refuge from trauma and assault. That heartbreaking reality propelled Judy into action. Recognizing the dire need for a safe space, she established Esther’s Place—the only Day Resource Center in Snohomish County dedicated to serving homeless women and their children. Many of the women who come to Esther’s Place face overwhelming barriers, including lack of shelter, food insecurity, and the trauma of past abuse. Without support, they struggle to find stability. Esther’s Place offers a sanctuary where women can rest, eat, shower, receive clothing, and access essential resources. More than just meeting immediate needs, the organization fosters a sense of community where women feel seen, valued, and supported.

The services at Esther’s Place have evolved to address the multifaceted challenges faced by their guests. Women can visit daily for breakfast and lunch, sign up for showers, and receive fresh clothing. The center provides a warm, welcoming space where they can sleep, connect with others, and access critical resources that guide them toward self-sufficiency. The holistic approach ensures every woman is met with kindness, understanding, and the tools she needs to move forward.

Among the many success stories, Sandra’s journey stands out as a testament to the power of support and community. Once a guest at Esther’s Place, Sandra found respect and kindness—things she had rarely experienced before. Realizing her self-worth, she embarked on a transformative path, receiving job training and personal development support. Today, Sandra manages Esther’s Place, paying forward the same compassion that once helped her. Her journey reflects the organization’s commitment to empowering women through spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, and financial healing.

The impact of Esther’s Place is amplified through strong collaborations with local organizations, including law enforcement, hospitals, recovery programs, and community groups. Partnerships with local businesses and churches further extend their reach, ensuring women in crisis receive comprehensive support. By working together, these groups create pathways for women to transition from survival to stability.

Community involvement is essential to sustaining Esther’s Place. There are numerous ways to contribute:

Looking ahead, the Hoff Foundation envisions a central campus housing all their programs in one place. The dream includes an expanded Esther’s Place with a full kitchen for culinary training, resource offices for counseling, and a dedicated space for Love It Again Boutique—a clothing closet providing transition-friendly apparel alongside a retail component supporting employment training. Additionally, an emergency shelter will offer overnight refuge, ensuring more women have access to safety and support. 

The women who seek refuge at Esther’s Place are not broken—they are wounded, and wounds can heal with love, care, and the right resources. Each meal served, every volunteer hour given, and every donation made helps transform lives. By coming together as a community, we can change the trajectory of these women’s lives, offering them a future filled with hope and self-sufficiency. Together, we are making a difference—one woman, one child, one life at a time.