Women’s shelter receives big donation from Snoqualmie Tribe

By Perris Larson, For the Valley Record • November 15, 2025 7:30 am

For 35 years, Mamma’s Hands has provided a safe and nurturing space for women and children escaping abuse. With two homes surrounded by 10 acres of forest in the Seattle region, the shelter offers programs tailored to each family, designed to prepare them for life after Mamma’s Hands.

Recently, Mamma’s Hands received a $25,000 donation from the Snoqualmie Tribe, the largest donation the tribe has made to the shelter. The team has already put some of the new funds toward the new septic system on the property, but there is still more work to be done. According to Star Lalario, the executive director, the hope is to put money toward a new security system, add ADA-compliant rooms, and add a new roof for one of the homes.

The shelter can accommodate up to seven families at once, with most of the moms being in their early thirties or younger. Children come in ranging from infants to to 14 years old, who are also assessed by Encompass, a nonprofit created to help families through pediatric therapy and enrichment programs. 85% of the families that are served come from a background in domestic violence, while 95% go on to graduate into stable housing and enroll in the Aftercare Program.

But what makes Mamma’s Hands unique is the intimate and cozy atmosphere families are surrounded by, and there is no pressure to leave immediately. As long as families are adhering to the rules, working toward their goals, and going to therapy, Mamma’s Hands will remain open to them. Most families stay with Mamma’s Hands between six to 12 months.

“As long as they’re making progress and working on their mental well-being, they can stay as long as they want,” Lalario said. “There’s no cap.”

The local community has been supportive of Mamma’s Hands since its creation through donations, volunteering, and attending their annual gala every May. According to Lalario, the best way people can help out is the continued donations and volunteering, but they would love more help with landscaping and handiwork too. Ultimately, the hope is to have more of a buffer of funds so more amenities and employees can be brought in.

“We would love just some more expertise,” Lalario said. “Maybe a nutritionist wants to come and teach the girls how to make the most out of five things they’ve got at the food bank.”

More information on Mamma’s Hands can be found at mammashands.org.