Petition Update: Winter Storm Arriving Soon – Shelter Open Sunday, But Why Not Tonight and Saturday?

We appreciate the county’s announcement that the Whatcom Severe Weather Shelter will be open from Sunday, Feb. 2, through Thursday, Feb. 6. Keeping people safe from freezing conditions is crucial, and we are grateful for these confirmed nights.

However, despite forecasted qualifying conditions (including estimated windchill), the shelter will remain closed Friday, Jan. 31, and Saturday, Feb. 1, with no clear explanation from the county. This means two more nights of dangerous cold before the next scheduled opening.

Here are the details for the upcoming openings:

Location: 925 N. Forest St. (downstairs of former Lutheran Church)

Check-in: 4-9 PM each evening

Check-out: 9 AM the following morning

Meals Provided: Dinner and breakfast

Well-behaved pets allowed

We continue to ask: Why isn’t the shelter open tonight and tomorrow, especially with freezing temperatures and snow in the forecast? The county has the funding, the space, and the need is undeniable.

Let’s keep pushing for a reliable, consistent shelter operation that doesn’t leave people out in the cold. Keep sharing this petition and contacting our leaders.

Shelter status updates: shelterstatus.com

With Gratitude,

Tukayote Helianthus