Whatcom County takes over severe weather shelter operations, calls for local support unanswered

Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) announced it will operate a severe weather shelter in Bellingham, scaling down bed capacity from 80 to 60 for the upcoming season. The department aims to enhance operations by doubling the number of temporary staff and using a department van for morning transportation while increasing food donations. Job descriptions and training plans are being finalized, with postings expected in the next couple of months. A lease for the shelter's location is anticipated to be authorized in September. In addition, WCHCS is calling for organizations to run another shelter outside of Bellingham to meet local needs.

Advocates previously pushed for a 50-degree temperature threshold for the 2025-26 season, but the Whatcom County Council has not made a public statement on this matter. Seasonal shelter operations are critical as the region prepares for severe weather conditions, impacting vulnerable populations. My Bellingham Now previously reported on the seasonal closure of the severe weather shelter in March.