Bellingham to Open Temporary Daytime Severe Weather Shelter on Dec. 1

The City of Bellingham has announced the launch of a temporary Severe Weather Day Shelter beginning Monday, December 1, offering a warm and safe daytime space for individuals experiencing homelessness during periods of extreme cold. The temporary warming site will operate at the former Lighthouse Mission Drop-In Center located at 1013 Holly Street.

City officials said the facility will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on days when the Whatcom County-run overnight Severe Weather Shelter is activated. When the nighttime shelter opens, the City’s day shelter will follow the next morning as long as staffing is available. Transportation will be provided for guests staying in the overnight shelter to ensure continuity of care and safety. Real-time activation updates will be posted at shelterstatus.com

Mayor Kim Lund emphasized that the decision reflects the City’s effort to protect vulnerable residents as temperatures decline throughout the region. She noted that the partnership with Whatcom County and local service organizations expands access to indoor space during the coldest periods of the season.

The daytime shelter will be supported by several community agencies, including the Opportunity Council’s Homeless Outreach Team, Road2Home, Lighthouse Mission Ministries, and Whatcom County Health and Community Services. Funding is coming from existing contracts, and Lighthouse Mission Ministries has donated the use of its former Drop-In Center for the season.

Those looking to volunteer can visit The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County for opportunities. While the County has paused new volunteer onboarding for the severe weather season, officials say additional openings may appear as needs change. The City is not accepting physical donations directly at the shelter. Community members wishing to donate food, clothing, or cold-weather items can submit information through Whatcom County Health and Community Services’ donation form.

The shelter will have a capacity of roughly 60 guests, with an additional 20 spaces for staff and service providers. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. each day it is activated. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Storage room is minimal, and carts will not be permitted inside. Service animals, emotional support animals, and therapy animals are allowed, though staff may ask that they stay in crates if needed for safety.

Up-to-date winter shelter information, including whether the daytime shelter is open on a given day, can be found at shelterstatus.com

Article by Bellingham Metro News