A devastating fire on Sunday evening destroyed a building in Lynnwood that housed the Center for Human Services, a behavioral health nonprofit serving youth and families.

South County Fire responded to the commercial structure blaze around 7:15 p.m. at 3924 204th St. SW. According to spokesperson Christie Veley, the building’s construction made the fire difficult to contain, requiring more than two hours to bring under control. Firefighters remained on-site for hours afterward, monitoring lingering flare-ups and smoldering debris.

“No injuries were reported,” Veley said. The Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire, though early indications suggest fireworks were not involved and there’s no suspicion of foul play.

The destroyed building was home to one of five Center for Human Services locations. The Lynnwood facility has operated for four years and was the base for more than 50 staff members and an intensive mental health program serving roughly 200 youth and families.

“My reaction was shock,” said Executive Director Beratta Gomillion. “We certainly didn’t expect this.”

Despite the loss of the facility, Gomillion emphasized the nonprofit’s resilience and commitment to continuity of care. “Fortunately, much of the work that we do is out in the community and not necessarily in the offices,” she said. “So our plan is to go ahead and provide services with as little disruption as possible, and just not have a building for right now.”

Veley urged the public to use extra caution during dry, warm conditions. “Our conditions are so dry and warm, so fires can start quickly,” she said. Fire crews will continue monitoring the site.

The Center for Human Services has long been a vital resource in Snohomish County, offering trauma-informed mental health services, substance use treatment, and family counseling. While the Lynnwood location has been rendered unusable, staff are mobilizing to continue operations remotely and within the community.

Local leaders and partner organizations are expected to provide logistical and financial support as the nonprofit recovers. The community’s outpouring of concern on social media and through volunteer channels underscores the critical role the Center plays in providing behavioral health access in the region.

As the investigation continues, the City of Lynnwood and South County Fire are reminding all residents to stay fire-aware, especially amid record heat and dry vegetation. Resources for fire prevention and safety tips are available on South County Fire’s website.

Originally reported by Jenna Peterson in Herald Net.