State Rep. Jeannie Darneille, D-Tacoma, has been named interim executive director of Hospitality House, a homeless women's shelter in Burien.

Hospitality House, located at Lake Burien Presbyterian Church, was founded in 2000.

In the past year, 2,710 bed nights were provided for 84 homeless women. Of the women served in 2007, 28 percent obtained employment while staying at Hospitality House and 64 percent moved into stable housing.

Local churches, businesses, governments, individuals, and civic organizations support the shelter.

Darneille has represented the 27th Legislative District (Tacoma and Fife) since 2001. She has also directed several agencies in Pierce County, including the Pierce County AIDS Foundation, the Emergency Food Network, and United Cerebral Palsy of South Puget Sound.

"We are excited to welcome Jeannie to our organization as we move into the future," said Joan Brown, board president. The board consists of representatives of the 12 churches that collaborate to provide essential services at Hospitality House and several at-large members.

The board's annual auction to support the work of Hospitality House, "Spring Swing," will be held Saturday, April 12, at 6 p.m. at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, 30525 Eighth Ave. S., Federal Way.

It will include silent and live auctions, a dinner with fine wines and chocolates, and live entertainment. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased by calling 253-852-1128.