Lake Whatcom Residential & Treatment Center

04/02/2026

We have been delighted to witness residents of our new Birchwood assisted living facility responding in a variety of very positive ways after the move in. That is arguably the best measure of success!

03/20/2026

The opening of our new Birchwood Assisted Living facility is a watershed moment for the clients and communities we serve.
With deep thanks to Whatcom County for their continued support, we are on the verge of greatly expanding our ability to care for those in need.
Bravo to the all the mighty LWC staff who pitched in and worked tirelessly to make this process go so smoothly!

Assisted living facility made possible by $1M county housing fund grant

03/19/2026

Congratulations, Lake Whatcom Center on the opening of a new 86-bed assisted living facility for adults with profound behavioral health issues! Whatcom County Housing Funds helped make this project possible with a $1 million building renovation grant.

“The new Birchwood facility will improve ADA accessibility, allow residents to be more independent in their daily living, have a greater sense of community belonging, and allow us to support more people with behavioral health issues who need to be in an assisted living environment,” said Jenny Billings, Lake Whatcom Center CEO. “Our Phase II renovations will help address the lack of substance use recovery residences in Whatcom County with up to 48 additional beds at a time when there are only 16 recovery residence beds in our community.”

03/17/2026

A little click can make a big difference! Help us spread hope, healing, and heart by voting for Lake Whatcom Residential & Treatment Center. Your support means the world to our community.

https://www.votecascades.com

We're under Health& Beauty > Recovery/Treatment Centers

Vote once per day from March 16 through April 3.

02/26/2026

We are over the moon pleased to announce that our new Birchwood facility is ready for move in!
Many Thanks to our CEO and the amazing crew who have worked so hard to make this happen.
Our ability to help and serve those in need has just taken a giant step forward!

02/05/2026

County on pace to exceed housing investment goals as part of the Justice Project - and looks to do more!

The Justice Project implementation plan calls for an investment of $4 million in supportive housing during the first six years to meet this important community need and address a key driver of incarceration.

The County is proud to announce that, just two years in, we are well on our way to exceed that goal.

This has been made possible by $3.6 million in grant funding through the Trueblood Diversion Workgroup as well as local affordable housing dollars which provided $1 million to support the renovation of Lake Whatcom Treatment Centers’ Birchwood Facility, which reopened this month.

The County continues to explore opportunities to build upon this $4.6 million investment in supportive housing specifically targeted to reduce incarceration.

You can learn more about the County's progress on the goals of the Justice Project by signing up for the Justice Project newsletter here: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAWHATCOMCO/bulletins/40577ae

12/23/2025

This is fascinating, and potentially huge news!

Scientists say their new insights into how a key brain protein works could help resolve a long-standing question in molecular neuroscience. Researchers supported by the National Institutes of Health at Johns Hopkins Medicine report that they have uncovered a promising drug target that could help

12/22/2025

The Holidays can be rough when life is tough. Know that there are caring hearts and hands out there.

12/18/2025

How lovely is this? Very!

In Albuquerque, a remarkable program has emerged where homeless individuals are being paid to clean the streets. The initiative not only helps beautify the city but also provides the homeless with a chance to rebuild their lives. It serves as an unconventional but effective solution to an ongoing issue. The success rate has been high, with 70% of those involved now housed.

This program challenges preconceived notions of homelessness. It goes beyond simply providing shelter or food, focusing on giving individuals a role in society that enhances their dignity. The city’s streets are cleaner, but the real impact is on the lives of those previously seen only as recipients of charity. The dignity of work, once lost, is now being restored.

It also highlights the importance of thinking outside the box. By looking beyond the surface of common solutions, real change is possible. As with any case, the solution may lie in a place we least expect, waiting to be uncovered.🧹🏙️

12/10/2025

Today is the recognized day. Every day must be - Let us work to close that gap.

11/27/2025

We wish all a day of peace, safety, and love for one another. To our employees working through the holiday, THANK YOU - you are deeply appreciated!

11/19/2025

Here's a great and very necessary resource for caregivers, from the folks at NAMI - Have a look and pass it on - It's a free service!

NAMI's Family Caregiver HelpLine is a free, confidential service providing support and connection at every stage of the caregiving journey.