Thank you to everyone who has signed up for the “Night Out in the Cold” protest! Your support is critical as we work together to demand action and compassion for those without shelter in our community. Stay tuned for more details about the time and location—we’ll share updates as soon as they’re finalized.
Why This Protest Matters
Those living in poverty and without a home deserve the same dignity and treatment as anyone else in our community, from top government leaders to the average citizen. By standing together—both protest participants and those experiencing homelessness—we can shine a spotlight on the dire lack of shelter and work to end homelessness in Whatcom County.
To reiterate: Even if the winter weather shelter were open every single night, there would still be well over 1,000 people without shelter from winter weather. This is unacceptable, and we must push for meaningful change to protect every member of our community.
How You Can Help
1. Sign Up for the Protest
The “Night Out in the Cold” is an opportunity to show solidarity, raise awareness, and amplify the urgency of this petition. Even if you can’t stay outside all night, your participation helps draw attention to our cause.
Sign up here: https://form.jotform.com/243544752585061
2. Continue Sharing the Petition
Every signature brings us closer to real change. Keep sharing this petition with your networks: https://www.change.org/WhatcomWinterShelter.
3. Email Local Leaders
Let’s keep the pressure on. Contact these leaders and demand they raise the shelter threshold to 40°F, including wind chill, and take immediate steps toward a year-round, low-barrier shelter:
• Satpal Sidhu (County Executive): ssidhu@co.whatcom.wa.us
• Whatcom County Council: council@co.whatcom.wa.us
• Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund: klund@cob.org
The Time to Act is Now
On this second day of Winter, I urge you to join us in this fight for dignity, safety, and compassion. No one should be left to suffer in the cold. Together, we can make a powerful statement that our community demands better.
Thank you for your dedication and compassion. Let’s make this protest count—sign up today:
https://form.jotform.com/243544752585061
With Gratitude,
Tukayote Helianthus