WECU launches flood relief support
BELLINGHAM — In response to recent flooding and the heightened risk of continued severe weather, WECU has activated a flood relief program to support members and non-members experiencing financial hardship.
According to a Dec. 16 WECU news release, the flood relief program is designed to provide flexible, accessible assistance for those navigating the aftermath.
To apply, or for more information regarding resources available immediately to people affected by flooding, visit wecu.com/flood-relief.
WECU encourages anyone impacted by the flooding to contact the credit union for personalized guidance and support.
Staff are ready to help individuals and businesses understand available options and determine the best path forward.
Get Simple supports flood response
LYNDEN — In response to severe flooding across Whatcom and Skagit counties, Get Simple Box is mobilizing its local fleet to support emergency shelters, relief organizations, and restoration efforts.
Get Simple Box has more than 40 shipping containers ready for immediate deployment, including 10 containers being donated at no cost to emergency response organizations.
In addition, the company is offering free delivery on rental containers for flood-impacted households, farms, nonprofits, and response crews.
While it may take a few days to reach everyone, Get Simple Box is committed to ensuring all requests are met as quickly as possible.
Organizations and individuals in need of emergency storage or distribution space are encouraged to contact Get Simple Box at 360-200-5679 or [email protected].
Get Simple Box is at 7350 Guide Meridian Road, Lynden, north of Wiser Lake Road.
Whatcom County’s flood recovery is under way
WHATCOM — U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen and U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell met on Dec. 13 with the mayors of Lynden, Ferndale, Nooksack, Everson and Sumas, as well as tribal leaders from Nooksack and the Lummi Nation, Whatcom County Sheriff and Emergency Management.
Leaders reported on impacts of last week’s flood and shared concerns for the future.
WCSO’s Division of Emergency Management reported on flood response resources and ongoing recovery efforts.
An additional, temporary debris drop-off site has opened in the county for flood debris. There are currently four county debris management sites:
• Stremler yard, 9626 Swanson Road (intersection of Halverstick)
• Trapline site, 402 Park Drive, Everson
• RDS Disposal, 5916 LaBounty Drive, Ferndale
• Republic Services, 1524 Slater Road, Ferndale
Whatcom County is developing a new drop-off site. Once it opens, the Stremler and Trapline sites will close.
Damage assessment is underway for homes, businesses and government facilities, the county also said. Reporting criteria must be met to qualify for state or federal funds. Phone 360-788-5303 for guidance.
Anyone displaced by flooding should call 360-788-5303 for resource options or visit Whatcom Ready to complete an Emergency Sheltering Needs form.
United Way of Whatcom County reactivates Community Relief Fund
WHATCOM — United Way of Whatcom County has reactivated their community relief fund to assist with flood relief efforts. United Ways throughout the region are stepping up to provide help where it’s needed most.
United Ways of the Pacific Northwest is coordinating with local United Ways in affected communities as they address needs in affected areas.
Those who want to contribute can give in their own county or to the larger PNW effort.
• United Way of Whatcom County Community Relief Fund
• United Way of Skagit County Disaster Recovery Fund
• United Ways of the Pacific Northwest Disaster Recovery Fund
Rep. Larsen announces commitment to keep Glacier Post Office open
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Washington State Rep. Rick Larsen released the following statement after the U.S. Postal Service assured his office that it would work to secure a new contract for local postal services and keep the Glacier Post Office open:
“After Glacier residents raised concerns that their post office could close and disrupt mail services, I pressed USPS for assurances to keep this critical post office open. I am glad that the Postal Service committed to keeping the Glacier Post Office open and working to finalize a new contract to continue local postal services.
“I will continue to work with local leaders to ensure that USPS follows through on this commitment so the approximately 300 people who call Glacier home can receive their medications, ballots, paychecks, bills and other necessities.”
On Nov. 18, Rep. Larsen wrote to Postmaster General David Steiner on behalf of Glacier residents and requested clarity about Glacier Post Office operations and assurances the Post Office would remain open. The full text of Rep. Larsen’s November letter is at larsen.house.gov.
On Dec. 5, USPS responded to Rep. Larsen and committed to working to keep the Glacier Post Office open. The full text of that response is also at larsen.house.gov.
Emergency Declaration for State of Washington approved
WASHINGTON — FEMA announced on Dec. 12 that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Washington to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on Dec. 9, 2025, and continuing.
According to a Dec. 12 news release from the US Department of Homeland Security, this action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in several counties including Whatcom, as well as Tribal Nations within the specified jurisdictions.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.
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