Petition Update: Action Needed to Keep the Severe Weather Shelter Open

874 supporters strong – and we need your voice now more than ever. With freezing temperatures gripping our community and snow in the forecast, it’s critical that the Bellingham Severe Weather Shelter operates every night that conditions pose a risk to human life. Here’s the latest and what you can do to help.

Shelter Availability This Week

The Bellingham Severe Weather Shelter is scheduled to open Friday, January 24, through Tuesday, January 28. While this is a step in the right direction, there are no announced openings beyond Tuesday night. This is deeply concerning as forecasts predict lows of 33°F on Wednesday night and snow on Friday. With wind chills, temperatures could drop even further.

The shelter has the resources to remain open for over 40 additional nights, and the lease is already paid through March 31. Let’s demand that every budgeted night is used to provide safety and warmth for our community members in need.

City of Bellingham to Vote on Additional Funding

This coming Monday, January 27, the Bellingham City Council will vote on whether to provide $150,000 to help Whatcom County operate the Severe Weather Shelter. These funds would come from the city’s Affordable Housing sales tax fund and could play a vital role in extending shelter operations.

The council’s Community and Economic Development Committee will review the funding proposal before the full council votes later that evening. However, the proposed interlocal agreement specifies that the City of Bellingham would not have control over shelter operations.

Let’s ensure this funding is approved and push for its immediate allocation to provide lifesaving shelter during this winter emergency.

County Admissions: Addressing Staffing Issues

The county has repeatedly cited staffing shortages as a reason for closing the shelter on nights when it’s most needed. For example, the shelter was closed on Thursday, January 23, leaving hundreds to endure 25°F (22°F wind chill) temperatures.

From the county’s own statements:

• “We were unable to secure sufficient staffing to open this evening [January 23].”

• “Extended operating periods are especially challenging for us.”

The county has also stated that shelter assistant positions were open for just four days before being removed from the website, leaving no option for additional applications. This lack of long-term planning is unacceptable and puts lives at risk.

Our Asks

In alignment with the Whatcom County Council’s letter to County Executive Satpal Sidhu, we urge:

1. Continuous Shelter Operations: Use every remaining budgeted night through March 31 to provide consistent shelter.

2. Sustainable Staffing Models: Transition away from the “on-call” system and implement steady, reliable staffing plans like those successfully used by Road2Home.

3. Transparent Communication: Announce shelter openings further in advance to allow the public and unhoused individuals to plan accordingly.

4. Plan for the Future: Start preparing for the winter of 2025 now, with extended timelines for RFPs and robust staffing recruitment.

How You Can Take Action

Here’s how you can support this cause:

1. Attend the City Council Meeting on Monday, January 27

• Signups for public comment begin at 6:30 PM sharp.

• Meeting starts at 7:00 PM at Bellingham City Hall.

• Share why continuous shelter operations are critical for our community.

2. Contact Your Leaders

Satpal Sidhu (County Executive): ssidhu@co.whatcom.wa.us

Whatcom County Council: council@co.whatcom.wa.us

Mayor Kim Lund: mayorsoffice@cob.org

Example message:

Subject: Keep the Severe Weather Shelter Open Every Night!

Dear [Leader’s Name],

With freezing temperatures and snow approaching, it is unacceptable to close the Severe Weather Shelter. With the lease paid through March 31 and over 40 nights of budgeted sheltering available, I urge you to use every possible resource to keep the shelter open continuously. Lives are at stake.

Please prioritize sustainable staffing models, transparent planning, and continuous shelter operations. Our community depends on you.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

3. Were You Uncontacted After Applying?

If you applied for a paid or volunteer position with the shelter and were never contacted, we want to hear from you. Please share your experience through this form.

4. Share This Petition

Every voice matters. Help us grow by sharing this petition with your friends, family, and neighbors.

Sign and Share the Petition Here

Let’s Act Now

The Severe Weather Shelter exists to save lives, and it’s unacceptable for it to remain closed when freezing conditions persist. Together, we can ensure no one is left out in the cold.

Thank you for your unwavering support and compassion. Let’s make a difference—together.

With Gratitude,

Tukayote Helianthus