Thank you to the 611 supporters who have signed this petition and stood up for our unhoused neighbors. Your voices matter, and together we are sending a strong message that no one should be left out in the cold. However, it has now been over 24 days since this petition began, and we’ve heard nothing from our county and city leaders. Their continued silence in the face of suffering is not just disappointing—it’s unacceptable.
Shelter Closed During Dangerous Weather
In recent weeks, we’ve experienced freezing temperatures, wind chills in the 20s, and relentless rain and wind. These conditions are hazardous, yet the Severe Weather Shelter has remained closed on nights that meet the county’s own qualifying criteria.
Our unhoused neighbors have been left to endure the elements, with nothing but makeshift shelters of cardboard, tarps, or thin blankets. Some don’t even have that. The human toll is devastating, and it doesn’t have to be this way.
Even if the shelter operated every night, it could only house 70 people—leaving over 1,000 individuals unsheltered, based on the 2024 Point in Time Count. These are preventable tragedies.
24 Days of Silence: No Response is a Response
It has been 24 days since this petition began. Not a single county or city leader has acknowledged the 611 voices calling for compassion, safety, and consistent shelter operations.
This silence speaks volumes. It is a decision to ignore the suffering of the most vulnerable members of our community. It is a decision to turn away from preventable deaths and injuries.
But we won’t stop. We will keep pushing until our leaders listen and act.
The “Night Out in the Cold” Protest
In response to this inaction, we are planning a “Night Out in the Cold” protest to highlight the urgency of this issue and stand in solidarity with those forced to endure these harsh conditions.
This protest is an opportunity to:
• Demand that the Severe Weather Shelter operates every night temperatures drop to 40°F, including wind chill.
• Show support for our unhoused neighbors and remind them they are not forgotten.
• Demonstrate to our leaders that this community demands action, not silence.
Sign up here to join the protest: https://form.jotform.com/243544752585061
Even if you can’t stay outside all night, your presence will help amplify our message and demand change.
How You Can Help Right Now
1. Sign Up for the Protest
Show your support by joining this powerful demonstration.
https://form.jotform.com/243544752585061
2. Share the Petition
Every new signature strengthens our case and brings us closer to real change. Share it with your friends, family, and social media networks.
https://www.change.org/WhatcomWinterShelter
3. Email Local Leaders
Hold our leaders accountable by urging them to raise the shelter threshold and operate consistently.
• Satpal Sidhu (County Executive): ssidhu@co.whatcom.wa.us
• Whatcom County Council: council@co.whatcom.wa.us
• Mayor Kim Lund: mayorsoffice@cob.org
Suggested Message:
“It has been 24 days since 611 supporters asked you to raise the Severe Weather Shelter threshold to 40°F, including wind chill. Your silence is unacceptable. People are suffering, and lives are at stake. Please act with compassion and prioritize consistent shelter operations. The time to lead is now.”
Thank You for Fighting for Change
To everyone who has signed this petition, shared it, and signed up for the protest—thank you. Your compassion and commitment are what will drive this movement forward.
This is not just about shelter; it’s about dignity, humanity, and justice. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no one in Whatcom County is left to suffer in the cold.
Sign the Petition: https://www.change.org/WhatcomWinterShelter
Sign Up for the Protest: https://form.jotform.com/243544752585061
Let’s keep the momentum going. Let’s keep demanding action. Let’s keep fighting for change.
With Gratitude,
Tukayote