Resources:

Winter Clothing Resources

  • provides winter coat, hat, gloves, scarf, hooded sweatshirt and/or blanket for eligible children at no cost.
    • Currently requests are going through our Family Resource Center, if interested please call 360-676-6456

If you are behind in rent there are resources available! Links below for information:

Other highlighted resources:

    • Applications can be done on by phone or online, see above link for more information and scheduling availability
  • – waitlist availability varies. Please click link for more information.

Family Support Services

Family Support Services includes many important programs including our Family Resource Centers, homeless support program and more.

Family Resource Centers Linking families to local resources and services

Family Resource Centers

The family resource centers are family support centers that link school families with local resources and human services, addressing the needs of the whole child to promote student success. All families are welcome.

The FRC locations are safe places where families can access information and available services including:

  • Basic needs such as food, clothing, and housing
  • Child academic and behavioral support
  • Medical and mental health
  • Special needs and disability
  • Financial and legal assistance
  • Educational and employment opportunities
  • Emergency assistance
  • 91勛圖厙 Public School provided resources and educational processes
Locations

Shuksan Middle School,泭2717 Alderwood Avenue
Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
360-676-6456

Carl Cozier Elementary School, 1330 Lincoln Street
Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
360-676-5085

Donations Accepted at the泭FRC (Shuksan and Carl Cozier locations)

All items need to be in good, like new or new condition.

  • Diapers, baby wipes
  • Toilet paper
  • Laundry soap, dish soap
  • Shampoo, conditioner, bath/body soap泭(full-size, not travel/hotel size)
  • Deodorant (men and women)
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste

For low-cost internet service information, please visit the Family Engagement webpage.

Resource Centers

Centers in 91勛圖厙

Address:泭4101 Meridian Street, 91勛圖厙
Hours:泭Monday - Friday泭8am to 5pm / Walk-in Services: 8am-3pm
Phone:泭(877) 501-2233; or apply for services泭

  • Services Offered

    • Cash help for Aged, Blind or Disabled people

    • Help in getting child support

    • Programs that help in emergency situations

    • Information on ways to avoid unintended pregnancies

    • Provide non-cash housing and other assistance

    • Help with health care and medical expenses

    • Cash and medical help for refugees

    • Cash help for families with children

    • Local offices can help you to register to vote.

    • Help with putting food on the table

    • Improving economic self-sufficiency
  • When you visit a泭DSHS泭Community Services Office, please bring the following documented information to help with your eligibility determination:
    • Your immigration status documentation
    • Proof of Washington residency
    • Information on your income
    • Name of your voluntary resettlement agency (VOLAG)
  • The following services can be completed in the office or online or by phone:
    • Apply for benefits or submit documents
    • Before 3 p.m.: Complete your interview for cash or food (application/eligibility review/mid-certification review)
    • Report changes for any of your benefits
    • Access to Working Connections Child Care services via phone or online
    • WorkFirst/Social Services Case Management
  • Public computers are located in the office lobbies. The computers are available to clients泭for DSHS business use.

Address:泭1111 Cornwall Avenue, Suite C, 91勛圖厙
Hours: Monday- Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walk-In Hours: Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Phone:泭(360) 734-5121 ext. 370 or 1-800-649-5121

  • Intake and screenings for housing programs, emergency shelters, and landlord/tenant information
  • Assistance accessing community services and providing basic needs
  • Referrals to other community resources

Center泭- Click here for flyer

Address: 2401 Cornwall Ave., 91勛圖厙 (located in basement of First Congregational Church of 91勛圖厙)

Phone: 360-734-3720

Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Friday

A day-use center for individuals 13-24 and are at risk of homelessness or currently experiencing homelessness. At the Ground Floor youth can connect with supportive adults, receive basic needs items and connect with other resources that will help them end their experience of homelessness. Some more ways the Ground Floor can help:

  • Food, showers, laundry, computer access, mail service, basic needs, survival resources, and rooms to rest in.
  • Emergency, transitional and permanent housing and support.
  • Job and education support.
  • Mental health and substance use counseling.
  • LGBTQ+ affirming services and programs.
  • Connections to other services.

Address:泭2912 Northwest Avenue, 91勛圖厙
晨棗喝娶莽:泭Monday - Tuesday, Thursday - Friday 10 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Phone:泭(360) 733-1410

  • Financial assistance (no assistance for gas, rental assistance or hotel/motel assistance)
  • Food, clothing, and hygiene supplies
  • Furniture and household items
  • Holiday assistance

Address:泭600 Lakeway Drive, Suite 100, 91勛圖厙
Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
捩堯棗紳梗:泭(360) 676-6749

  • Information and assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities
  • Medicaid transportation (see medical for more information)

Other Centers in Whatcom County

(Opportunity Council resource center)

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭8251 Kendall Road, Maple Falls
晨棗喝娶莽:泭Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
捩堯棗紳梗:泭(360) 599-3944

  • Referrals and assistance accessing community resources
  • Tutoring, youth activities, and community meetings
  • Public computers and printers

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭5694 2nd Ave., Ferndale
Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Phone:泭(360) 380-2200

  • Public computers
  • Shower vouchers, bus passes, hygiene products, and small clothing bank
  • Referrals and assistance accessing community resources
  • Domestic violence advocate available by appointment
Operation School Bell

Operation School Bell

(This program is funded by the Assistance League of 91勛圖厙 and provides assistance in buying school clothes, to qualify students must be K-12 and qualify for free school meals)

Sign-ups for Operation School Bell (OSB) are closed for the 2022-23 school year. If you submitted an application you can expect a call early/mid November with more information on when & where to collect vouchers. There was a delay in the delivery of vouchers to Assistance League of 91勛圖厙 so the distribution date is later than previously expected. (All eligible families who previously applied will receive a voucher for OSB, there were enough slots available so a lottery was not necessary).

If you have any questions or want to confirm your application, please email frc@bellinghamschools.org.

Food & Meals

Breakfast and Lunch in 91勛圖厙 Public Schools

Apply for reduced/free breakfast/lunch by picking up an application at your schools front office or .

After School Dinner Program

  • All children under 18 and under receive a free hot meal
    • It doesnt matter what school you attend
    • Accompanying adults charged $5.25
  • Meal served at Shuksan Middle School Cafeteria
    • 2717 Alderwood Avenue (corner of Northwest and Alderwood)

Local Resources

泭/泭泭

List of food banks, weekly/monthly hot meals, and senior meals in Whatcom County.

To check for an updated version, visit泭(scroll to the bottom of the page for links to resource guides)

State Programs

offers monthly food benefits to low-income people. The泭泭provides benefits to people who are not eligible for SNAP due to immigration status.

Check if you're eligible and start your application:

  • Online:泭
  • By Phone: 1-877-501-2233
  • In Person:
    • 91勛圖厙 DSHS Office, 4101 Meridian St., 91勛圖厙, WA
      • Walk-in hours Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
    • Opportunity Council (1111 Cornwall Ave, 91勛圖厙), DSHS Outstation
      • Available Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
    • WorkSource (101 Prospect St., 91勛圖厙), DSHS Outstation
      • Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

泭provides healthy food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health screenings for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 years of age.

Check if you're eligible at:泭

Apply by making an appointment with local WIC provider:

  • 泭- (360) 966-2106
    2510 Sulwhanon Dr
    Everson, WA泭 98247
  • 泭- (360) 788-7150
    4455 Cordata Parkway
    91勛圖厙, WA泭 98226
  • 泭- (360) 778-4280
    1764 Iowa St
    91勛圖厙, WA泭 98229
  • 泭- (360) 778-4220
    6046 Portal Way
    Ferndale, WA泭 98248
  • 泭- (360) 312-2467
    2592 Kwina Rd
    91勛圖厙, WA泭 98226
Housing & Shelter

In District Services

If you are experiencing housing instability or have any questions about housing resources please contact our districts homeless liaisons for more questions. If eligible, they can provide support through the McKinney-Vento program, which works to eliminate academic barriers for students experiencing homelessness (more information provided on the Family Services page)

Community Resources

Below is information about the housing resources in our community. Whatcom County has a coordinated entry system this means a single intake is done for many different programs, eligibility screenings and intakes are done at the Opportunity Council (information listed below).

泭completes screenings and centralized intakes for multiple homeless housing programs in our community. Call or visit the Community Resource Center walk-in hours to start the process and find out if your family is eligible for services.

Address:泭1111 Cornwall Ave., 91勛圖厙, WA

Walk-In Hours:泭10am - 4pm,泭Monday - Friday

Phone: 360-734-5121 ext. 370 or 1-800-649-5121

泭- Emergency shelter and drop-in center for single men and women, ages 18 and older

Address:泭910 West Holly St.,泭91勛圖厙, WA

Hours:泭Open 24/7; Check-in for the night by 8:15pm

Phone:泭360-733-5120

泭- Temporary housing for pregnant women and women with children

Address:泭Lynden, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-354-9930

Income-Based Housing

泭helps connect families and individuals to public housing, project-based housing, Section 8 housing, and affordable properties. Applications are now available .

Address:泭208 Unity St., 91勛圖厙, WA

Office Hours: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday - Friday

Email:泭bellinghamhousing.info@bwcha.org

Phone:泭360-676-6887

offers affordable housing for low-income families, seniors, and people with special needs. Each individual property has its own application process and wait lists. Visit the or call the general phone line for more information.

Phone:泭206-838-5700

Housing Search Assistance

Refer to this document for listings of affordable housing options in Whatcom County:

Housing to Try -泭Updated July 2019

Link above connects to Opportunity Council's Housing To Try resource guide. This lists apartments in 91勛圖厙/Whatcom County found to be more affordable. Contact individual listings for availability.

Housing Lab

Housing search assistance hosted by the Opportunity Council:

  • Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at 625 Cornwall Ave., 91勛圖厙, WA, 98225
  • Supports provided (hablamos espa簽ol)
    • Housing search and application support
    • Developing a renters portfolio
    • Renter education
    • Referrals to community resources
    • Roommate/Landlord mediation
    • Roommate matching
    • Eviction prevention
  • is present 11 a.m. 12 p.m. to answer Landlord/Tenant law questions

Medical Care

Accessing Health Care

Do you have health insurance?

  • If no, there are a couple options to get connected:
    • You can go online to to apply online
    • Need help signing up? Our community has Outreach and Enrollment Specialists that are a great resource in navigating enrollment in health insurance, available at:
      • Unity Care NW, call 360-788-2669 for more information
      • SeaMar, call 360-671-3225 for more information
    • If yes, contact your provider to see what providers accept your insurance
      • Example: if you have Molina, you can access their website to search providers accept this insurance,

Getting a Sports Physical

To participate in athletics, you will need a sports physical. Physicals are valid for two school years.

  • If you have a primary care provider, connect with that provider. Ask for a Well-Child Appointment and state you need a sports physical.
  • If you do not have a primary care provider, use the resource list below to get connected to our health care partners.
  • No insurance? Unity Care NW can provide assistance enrolling in insurance plans. Call (360) 788-2669 to speak with an enrollment specialist.
  • If you need help accessing care, calls BPS Athletics and Activities at 360-676-2786.

Make a well-child appointment with your provider in advance as clinics will be busy before the school year stars.

The following health care partners are scheduling appointments for new and continuing patients:

PeaceHealth
4545 Cordata Pkway (One of many locations around town)
360-738-2200
All major health insurance providers accepted

Family Care Network
3600 Orchard Pl (One of many locations around town)
360-671-3900
All major health insurance providers accepted

SeaMar (bilingual staff)
4455 Cordata Pkwy
360-671-3225
Apple Health and all major health insurance accepted

Unity Care NW (bilingual staff)
220 Unity St
360-676-6177
360-788-2669 (insurance enrollment specialist)
Apple Health and all major health insurance accepted

Resource Guides

Below is a variety of resource guides to help navigate local health care. provided by (no longer operating since 6/2019),

Local Community Health Centers, the following accept Medicaid/Apple Health:

泭offers medical, dental, and behavioral health services, sliding scale fees available.

91勛圖厙 Medical Clinic:泭200 Unity Street, 91勛圖厙, WA

Phone:泭360-676-6177

Ferndale Medical Clinic:泭5616 3rd Ave, Ferndale, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-752-7410

泭offer medical, dental, and behavioral health services, sliding scale fees available.

91勛圖厙 Medical Clinic:泭4455 Cordata Parkway, 91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-671-3225

Everson Medical Clinic:泭6884 Hannegan Rd, Everson, WA

Phone: 360-354-0766

泭offers general health care and sexual/reproductive health care services for people with private, state, or no insurance, on a sliding fee scale.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1530 Ellis Street, 91勛圖厙,泭WA

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 8am-5:30pm, Tuesday: 9am-7pm, Saturday: 9am-5pm - Saturday; Same-day and walk-in appointments may be available.

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-734-9095

Assistance with Medical Bills (also see Financial Assistance tab)

泭provides grants泭to help pay for medical needs of children in low-income families with private/commercial insurance. Learn more and apply for a grant online.-

泭can be requested before, during, or after receiving medical care from PeaceHealth. Learn more and apply for assistance online.-

Customer Service Phone Support:泭1-877-202-3597

泭offers泭泭to adult women with Apple Health or Medicare to help pay for medical services that are not covered by insurance. Learn more and apply for a grant online.

Transportation to Medical Appointments

If you or someone you know is having difficulty paying your medical bills here are some suggestions:

(List provided from )

  • if you have Medicaid you may qualify for transportation assistance.
    • Arranges and pays for non emergency medical transportation for eligible clients to and from services. Call number listed below, please allow two full business days notice before assistance is needed.
      • Phone: 360-738-4554, Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
  • if you are undergoing cancer treatment.
  • for passengers over the age of 62 receive a 5% discount.
  • if you have a mental or physical disability.
  • provides transportation to medical appointments if you are a veteran.
  • if you are over the age of 60 and/or have a disability.
Dental Care

Information About Local Dental Services

Below information flyers provided by Whatcom Alliance for Health Advancement, no longer operating since 6/2019)

  • The Unity Care NW mobile dental program provides routine dental care at elementary and middle schools, Head Start programs, and daycare centers throughout Whatcom County. Mobile Dental Program staff provide exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and oral hygiene instruction.
  • For more information contact the Dental Access Coordinator at (360) 676-6177, ext. 1181.

offers comprehensive dental care at a reduced fee.泭Minors must have guardian consent. Dental services provided by students are closely supervised by licensed staff and faculty.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭BTC Building C,泭3028 Lindbergh Ave., 91勛圖厙 WA

Open:泭Monday - Friday, October - June

Phone:泭360-752-7000

Mental Health

Getting Started

Do you have health insurance?

  • If no, there are a couple options to get connected:
    • You can go online to to apply online
      • Phone support: 1-855-923-4633
    • Need help signing up? Our community has Outreach and Enrollment Specialists that are a great resource in navigating enrollment in health insurance, available at:
      • Unity Care NW, call 360-788-2669 for more information
      • SeaMar, call 360-671-3225 for more information
  • If yes, contact your provider to see what providers accept your insurance
    • Example: if you have Molina, you can access their website to search providers accept this insurance,

Finding a Mental Health Counselor

List of providers that accept Apple Health/Medicaid, and/or sliding scale fees

  • Talk to your student's school counselor to see what resources are available through the school
    • Our district partner's with community agencies to bring mental health counselors into the school to meet with students to reduce barriers a student might have to access this service
  • s: Call to schedule initial intake in order to start services, 360-676-2164
    • Common referral for youth patients
    • Also available from Catholic Community Serivces:
      • 泭(Wraparound with Intensive Services) for youth, see link for more information: 360-676-2164
  • : Must be a Unity Care NW patient to receive mental health services, call for more information at 360-676-6177
  • : Call to schedule initial intake, 360-734-5458
  • :泭Call to schedule an initial intake, 360-398-5444
  • 泭(January-June): Offers free individuals counseling from Graduate students in Westerns Psychology Department, under faculty supervision. 泭Call early December for priority scheduling. For scheduling and more information call 360-650-3184

泭offers a database of most mental health therapists in Whatcom County.

  • Able to search based on what insurance is accepted and specialty (youth, grief, depression, etc.)
  • Call counselor to see if new patients are being accepted and more information on scheduling

Support Groups

泭offers泭multiple support groups for individuals and families living with mental illness and for people who have lost a loved one to suicide.

Address:泭800 E Chestnut St. Suite 1C泭(inside Chestnut Professional Building), 91勛圖厙, WA

晨棗喝娶莽:泭10am - 3pm, Monday - Friday

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-671-4950

泭provides an online listing of a wide variety of support groups for individuals and families. Some groups include:

  • 泭(for families of children with developmental disabilities, delays, and ongoing health care needs)
  • 泭(groups泭for adults)
  • 泭(Parents, Families, and Friends of the LGBT community)
  • 泭(groups泭for泭teens, parents, men and women)
  • 泭(group for adults caring for an adult loved one)

Adress: 1231 N. Garden St., #200, 91勛圖厙

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm

Phone: 360-734-4676

  • Provides evidence-based parenting programs, an array of both individual group programs, as well as one-time trainings
  • Call Brigid Collins to speak to the on-call staff to discuss what programs might be a good fit for your family

Crisis Response Services

For emergency situations and if someone is in immediate danger, call泭9-1-1.

(CPIT) through Compass Health

A community based outreach team with the ability to respond to and provide services in the community (e.g., homes, schools, shelters). CPIT serves adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing a behavioral health (mental health and/or substance use) crisis regardless of their funding source. CPIT offers short term crisis intervention and prevention services utilizing strength based, solution focused, culturally competent, trauma informed, and recovery oriented interventions.

CPIT consists of a team of behavioral health professionals, including mental health professionals and certified peer counselors, collaborating with the individual in crisis and their family members to develop a plan to get through the current crisis, manage future crises, and move towards recovery. Information on how to connect to services listed below:

  • Individuals may contact the CPIT office directly at 360-752-4545 to speak with a chemical dependency professional or a mental health professional. CPIT is available 9:00 am 12:00 am, every day.

or

  • Anyone may call the VOA Care Crisis Response Services the Care Crisis Line at 1-800-584-3578 24/7 365 days-a year to speak with a licensed mental health professional who will assess the situation, make appropriate referrals, and/or dispatch the CPIT community based outreach team.

The following resources are available 24 hours a day:

:泭1-800-584-3578 (more information about crisis line provided above)

:泭1-800-273-8255, available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress

360-715-1563 or 1-877-715-1563, hotline to get connected to confidential support services if you are fleeing domestic violence

:泭Text HOME to 741-741, free confidential crisis intervention through texting

Crisis chat line through Volunteers of America

866-833-6546, a confidential teen-answered help line, every evening, 6pm-10pm

866-786-1511, 24-hour help for Substance Abuse, Problem Gambling, & Mental Health

Youth Housing & Shelter

Youth Housing & Shelter

泭(NWYS)泭serves young people泭ages 13-24 experiencing homelessness泭in Whatcom and Skagit Counties. In addition to housing, they offer泭street outreach, help finding a job or enrolling in school, connection to mental health services, support for LGBTQ youth, restorative justice for juvenile offenders, and referrals to other services in the community. Please contact NWYS for more information about program eligibility and other questions.

Whatcom Office:泭1020 North State Street,泭91勛圖厙, WA

Walk-in Hours: Monday- Friday 9:00am- 5:00pm

Phone:泭360-734-9862

The PAD (Positive Adolescent Development)

The PAD (Positive Adolescent Development) is an emergency housing program in 91勛圖厙 that offers housing for youth between 13 - 17 years old.泭No application is泭required. Staff are on-site and available 24 hours a day to support any youth in crisis.

In this program, youth work with a case manager to create a plan for obtaining stable housing before they泭exit, and set goals to work toward泭throughout their stay.

The PAD provides food, clothing, and a safe place to live for every youth who enters the program. Youth have support enrolling in school, obtaining employment, setting up medical appointments, and learning the skills necessary to live independently.

PAD Hotline 360-393-0116 (available 24 hours a day/7 days a week)

- Click here flyer

Address: 2401 Cornwall Ave., 91勛圖厙 (located in basement of First Congregational Church of 91勛圖厙)

Phone: 360-734-3720

Hours: 10am-2pm, Monday-Friday

A day-use center for individuals 13-24 and are at risk of homelessness or currently experiencing homelessness. At the Ground Floor youth can connect with supportive adults, receive basic needs items and connect with other resources that will help them end their experience of homelessness. Some more ways the Ground Floor can help:

  • Food, showers, laundry, computer access, mail service, basic needs, survival resources, and rooms to rest in.
  • Emergency, transitional and permanent housing and support.
  • Job and education support.
  • Mental health and substance use counseling.
  • LGBTQ+ affirming services and programs.
  • Connections to other services.
Renter & Homeowner Support

Eviction Prevention

泭offers limited eviction prevention and other services to prevent homelessness (availability . Complete a screening at the Community Resource Center to see if your family is eligible for services.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭Opportunity Council,泭1111 Cornwall Ave., 91勛圖厙, WA

Walk-in 晨棗喝娶莽:泭8:00am 3:00pm,泭Monday - Friday

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-734-5121 ext. 370

泭is a drop-in clinic where lawyers consult with low income renters on a first-come, first-serve basis. This consultation service is for renters at risk of losing housing, and it can include: information about tenant-landlord laws; document review and advice; representation; and negotiation with landlord's attorney.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭Whatcom County Courthouse (5th Floor), 311 Grand Ave, 91勛圖厙, WA

Hours:泭Every Friday from 12:30pm 3:00pm, please check-in by 1:30pm (except Whatcom County holidays - refer to the泭 (lawadvocates.org)

is a Seattle-based organization providing tenants the resources and tools泭they need to prevent eviction and ensure housing stability. Call their message-only phone line or refer to their泭.

Tenant Services Hotline:泭206-694-6767泭(message only)

晨棗喝娶莽:泭Monday & Thursday 10:30am - 1:30pm; Wednesday泭1:30 - 4:30pm

Foreclosure Prevention

泭is a one-stop online resource center developed by the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions for home ownership and foreclosure information specifically for Washington residents.

Call泭1-877-894-HOME泭(4663) to speak to a housing counselor and to access referrals for foreclosure mediation.

provides free legal education, advice, and referrals to low-income people, including referrals for foreclosure mediation. Intakes done through CLEAR (Coordinated Legal Education, Advice, and Referral) line, contact information below:

Local Office:泭1814 Cornwall Ave, 91勛圖厙

Call for Referral through CLEAR Line: 1-888-201-1014, Monday-Friday, 9:15am - 12:15am

泭helps homeowners explore alternatives to foreclosure and facilitates mediation between homeowners and the company servicing their mortgage. To access mediation, homeowners need to be referred to the Department of Commerce by a housing counselor or an attorney.

Address:泭13 Prospect St., Suite 201, 91勛圖厙, WA

晨棗喝娶莽:泭Tuesday - Friday 10:00am 5:00pm

Phone:泭360-676-0122

Home Repairs & Weatherization

泭has a range of programs to contribute to the safety and comfort of low-income homes, as well as increase home energy conservation and efficiency. Intakes done through Energy Assistance line provided below.

Address:泭1111 Cornwall Ave, 91勛圖厙, WA

Phone Line Hours: 9am-12pm / 1pm-4pm, Monday-Thursday

Phone: 360-255-2192

泭provides low-interest loans and support services for the rehabilitation of one- to four-unit family residences for low- and moderate-income households. Learn more and access the application online.

Email:泭Lisa Manos:泭lmanos@cob.org

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-778-8391

Foster Care

District Foster Care Liaison

The general role of the 91勛圖厙 Public Schools (BPS) Foster Care Liaison is to facilitate district compliance with state and federal laws as they relate to children and youth in foster care, and to collaborate with the DSHS/Childrens Administration (CA) in an effort to address educational barriers that prevent children and youth in foster care from being identified, enrolled, attending, and succeeding in school.

BPS Foster Care Liaison

Emily Humphrey-Kringbaum
360.676-5085
emily.Humphrey-Krigbaum@bellinghamschools.org

Roles and responsibilities of the Foster Care Liaison may include:

  1. Coordinating with the corresponding child welfare agency point of contact on the implementation of the Title I, Part A provisions.
  2. Coordinating with the Foster Care Program Supervisor at OSPI.
  3. Attending training and professional development opportunities to improve district implementation efforts.
  4. Serving as the primary contact person for DSHS/CA and social workers.
  5. Leading and documenting the development of a process for making best interest determinations.
  6. Facilitating the transfer of records.
  7. Facilitating immediate enrollment.
  8. Facilitating data sharing with the child welfare agencies, consistent with FERPA and other privacy protocols.
  9. Developing and coordinating local transportation procedures.
  10. Managing best interest determinations and transportation cost disputes.
  11. Ensuring that children in foster care are enrolled in and regularly attending school.
  12. Providing professional development and training to school staff on the Title I, Part A provisions and educational needs of children in foster care, as needed.
Clothing & Household Items

Low Cost Clothing Resources

Clothing Resources Flyer - includes information listed below

泭sells clothing and household items for $7 a bag (all you can fit in a bag). Furniture also available.

Address:泭3550 Meridian, Suite #2, 91勛圖厙
Hours:泭Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 3pm
Phone:泭360-647-5415

泭sells used clothing, linens, and household items. Proceeds benefit Lydia Place.

Address:泭1224 North State Street, 91勛圖厙
Hours:泭Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm
Phone:泭360-734-0202

sells used clothing, household items, furniture, and various appliances.

Address: 1515 Birchwood Ave., Bellingha

Hours: Monday- Saturday 10:00am-7:00pm

Phone: (360) 733-1350

Free Clothing Resources

泭is an annual shopping event through the Assistance League of 91勛圖厙. This program provides an eligible student with an appointment to spend up to $100 at Target in Bellis Fair for school clothes and/or shoes.

Eligibility: student must qualify for free school meals and not have received this program for the last 3 years in a row (required to take 1 year off, then can reapply)

Sign-Up Event: this event typically takes place on the first Purple Friday of the school year, please contact the districts family support liaisons for more information. Date is announced before the end of school year. Information is put out in end of the year newsletter as well. Appointments are filled first come first served for eligible students. Students do not need to be present for sign-up event, legal guardian must be present to schedule appointment. With any questions, feel free to contact family liaisons listed below:

泭provides vouchers for clothing, household items, and furniture to be used at the Salvation Army Thrift Store.

Address:泭2919 Northwest Avenue, 91勛圖厙
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 10:00am - 1:00pm
捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-733-1410

at YWCA - provides clothing, accessories, and haircuts for low-income women. Employment or change of employment is not required to participate.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1026 N. Forest St., 91勛圖厙
Hours: By appointment, call to schedule
Phone:泭360-734-4820, Ext. 210

泭provides clothing, blankets, and small household items. Everyone welcome.

Address:泭162 W. Laurel Rd., 91勛圖厙
Hours:泭Thursday 10am to 2pm
Phone:泭360-398-1761

泭provides clothing for all ages, as well as linens and bedding, to those with financial need.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭500 C Street,泭Blaine泭(adjacent to the Blaine Food Bank)
Hours:泭Mondays and Fridays, 9:00am to 12:00pm; Wednesdays 5:00 to 7:00 pm
捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-392-8484

provides clothing and food, as well as assistance with other needs such as transportation and utility bills.泭Must live within the Lynden School District. Please bring paperwork that shows your address.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭205 S. BC Ave., #105, Lynden
Hours:泭Monday 9:30-12:00pm, Tuesday 3-6, Friday 9:30-12:00pm
捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-354-4673

offers various services provided throughout the year, information provided below:

  • Shoe distribution offered April/May, free pair of shoes for eligible children, call for an appointment,
  • Back to School Backpack offered Aug/Sept, able to provide a brand new backpack, up to five children per family, call for information on distribution dates
  • Winter Warm-Up offered Oct/Nov, provides new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, scarves, hooded sweatshirt, and/or blanket, call to set up an appointment

Phone: 360-756-6710

Address: 泭2505 Cedarwood Ave., Ste 5, 91勛圖厙, WA, 98225

Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00am-4:00pm

Drug & Alcohol Treatment

Drug & Alcohol Treatment

If you have questions or concerns about your use of or dependency on alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs, consider talking to your doctor first. Additionally, some local resources include:

泭offers a range of outpatient treatment services for youth and adults. Apple Health, private insurance, and payment plans accepted.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭515 Lakeway Drive,泭91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-676-2187

泭provide outpatient treatment and supports for adults. Medicaid and private insurance accepted, sliding-fee scale available.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭3350 Airport Drive, 91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-734-5458

provides a variety of programs to support adults in substance abuse recovery. To get started, call for more information or attend walk-in hours for an initial assessment:

Address: 4120 Meridian St,. 91勛圖厙, 98226

Walk-in assessment hours: Monday-Wednesday, 12pm-3:30pm

Phone: 360-922-3030

Employment

Employment Support for Youth

泭supports youth in finding, applying, and interviewing for jobs.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1020 North State St., 91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-734-9862

Email:泭TanyaF@NWYS.org

's young adult program serves youth ages 16-24 by providing paid internships, skill building, and job search strategies.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭101 Prospect St.,泭91勛圖厙, WA

Phone:泭360-676-3230泭(Young Adult Job Coach)

泭is a free residential training and education program which connects youth ages 16-21 with the skills and educational opportunities they need to establish a career. The local branch is泭.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1950 Northern State Rd.,泭Sedro Woolley,泭WA

Phone:泭360-854-3400

Employment Support for Adults

泭supports job-seekers in Washington with a wide range of employment and training services. Online and in-person services are available.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭101 Prospect St.,泭91勛圖厙, WA

Phone:泭360-676-1521

Email:泭gsmith@workforcenorthwest.org

泭offers free classes, workshops, and other support services to help people build work skills and find employment.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1115 E Sunset Dr., 91勛圖厙, WA

Phone:泭360-738-0483

泭provides training and education to Basic Food clients, with the goal of helping them to attain a living wage career. BFET services are available from all community and technical colleges as well as some community agencies in Whatcom County.

Address:泭DSHS Office,泭4101 Meridian Street, 91勛圖厙, WA
Phone:泭(877) 501-2233

Employment Support for Adults with Disabilities

泭helps people with disabilities gain tools and knowledge to promote independent living and employment opportunities.

91勛圖厙 Office:泭1611 N. State St.,泭91勛圖厙, WA

Phone: 360-647-9087

Ferndale Office:泭1354 Pacific Place, Suite 101,泭Ferndale, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-714-9355

泭provides vocational services to adults with developmental disabilities. Their goal is to help each client in our program find paid employment in our community.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭310 Iowa St.,泭91勛圖厙,泭WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-676-9010

Email:泭staff@kulshansupportedemployment.org

泭offers services designed to help people with disabilities prepare for, get, and keep a job.

Address:泭4101 Meridian,泭91勛圖厙,泭WA

Phone:泭360-714-4136

Email:泭DVR91勛圖厙Referral@dshs.wa.gov

Staffing Agencies (Temporary and/or Permanent Placements)

泭

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1200 Dupont Street, Suite 2A, 91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-734-8860

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1840 Iron St. Suite A,泭91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-676-1666

Address:泭4152 Meridian St.,泭Suite 201,泭91勛圖厙,泭WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-734-2457

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭2211 Rimland Dr.,泭Suite 411,泭91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-647-2207

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭216 W Champion St.,泭91勛圖厙, WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-671-1977

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭1530 Birchwood, Suite B,泭91勛圖厙,泭WA

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-647-7642

Legal Assistance

Legal Assistance

Law Advocates泭provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families in Whatcom and Island counties.泭They help people to preserve their homes; navigate family law and guardianship; maintain their employment, healthcare, and livelihood; and shield themselves from domestic violence and fraudulent practices.

Drop-In Events:泭Refer to the泭

Phone:泭360-671-6079

Potential clients are encouraged to first call the泭泭(Coordinated泭Legal Education Advice and Referral) to determine program eligibility.

CLEAR Hours:泭9:15am - 12:15pm, Monday - Friday

CLEAR Hotline:泭1-888-201-1014

泭is an online resource where you can learn more about legal issues, your rights, and where to find legal services near you.

Kinship Custody Clinic泭- offered one evening each month, free information and self-help legal assistance including:

  • Lean more about the procedures and issues associated with obtaining a泭non-parental custody order for a relative or other concerned person
  • Receive self-help assistance with court papers from a family law attorney
  • Learn how to go to court on your own to obtain a non-parental custody order
  • Call泭360-671-6079泭for eligibility screening and appointment
  • See Financial Assistance for other supports for Kinship care givers
Financial Assistance & Literacy

Financial Assistance & Literacy

Church-Based Financial Assistance泭is available in Whatcom County on a limited and case-by-case basis for emergency financial needs including gas, food, utilities, and IDs. Click on the attached document or visit the Opportunity Council for more information.

O.C. Walk-In Hours:泭Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm
O.C. Phone:泭(360) 734-5121

泭services include budget counseling, furniture program, small home repairs, and limited financial resources (for costs such as prescription co-pays, back-to-work needs, and transportation).

Phone Hours:泭9am - 1pm, Monday - Thursday

Phone:泭360-671-6201

泭is a series of free classes designed to increase adults knowledge of money habits and attitudes, as well as developing skills and strategies for saving, tracking spending, budgeting, and renting.

Address:泭Opportunity Council,泭1111 Cornwall Avenue, Suite C, 91勛圖厙
Walk-In Hours:泭Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm
Phone:泭360-734-5121,泭Ext. 223

泭offers financial literacy classes, private financial coaching, support for first-time homeowners, and classes on overcoming barriers to housing, jobs and opportunities due to a conviction history.

插餃餃娶梗莽莽:泭2303 Moore St, 91勛圖厙, WA 98229

捩堯棗紳梗:泭360-319-3759

Email:泭trudy@thewhatcomdream.org

provides short-term services to help kinship caregivers (a relative by blood or marriage taking primary care of a child(ren) under the age of 18) maintain their role during a financial emergency. Funds may be available once a year for emergent basic needs, such as food, clothing, hygiene items, school supplies, utilities, housing, etc. Appointments include an eligibility screening and assistance connecting with other resources and programs such as Custody Help, Energy Assistance, Basic Food, and more

Contact: Naomi Siegel

Phone: 360-734-5121 ext. 246

Email: naomi_siegel@oppco.org

泭for support of school trip fees, summer camp enrollment fees, bicycle and helmet, special needs equipment, tutoring, computers, school related supplies such as a scientific calculator, or an ASB card (required to participate in school sports), sports fees and/or uniforms, cleats, and other items. Also, 泭for ongoing support of lessons and activities including, but not limited to, art lessons, music lessons such as piano, violin or guitar, as well as martial arts, team sports, individual activities such as swimming lessons, dance, ballet, gymnastics, ice skating, ice hockey, horseback riding, and soccer. (see clothing for other programs offered by Blue Skies for Children)

Phone: 360-756-6710

Address: 泭2505 Cedarwood Ave., Ste 5, 91勛圖厙, WA, 98225

Hours: 10am-4pm, Monday - Thursday

Miscellaneous

Showers below are a list of shower resources in 91勛圖厙

  • YMCA free shower passes are passed out at the Opportunity Council lobby (open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday, 1111 Cornwall Ave.) ID required for entry into YMCA. (towel provided)
  • Arne Hanna Aquatic Center - $3/person to shower, no ID required (no towel provided)
  • Lake Padden Park free showers on site at Park Spring through Summer, park open 6am-10pm, daily

Laundry information about free laundry services below

  • Opportunity Council (8am-5pm, Monday-Friday, 1111 Cornwall Ave), has vouchers to do a free wash and dry, one per month, vouchers are limited each week, first come, first serve

Isabel Meaker
Executive Director

360-676-2790