Lake Whatcom Residential & Treatment Center

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.

11/17/2025

Here's some great sharable info, courtesy of the opportunity Council, for making the holidays a bit brighter.

11/13/2025

Each and every effort helps, and small local truly helps most. November and December are extra tough months for folks in need. Please do what you can, and know it's greatly appreciated!

11/04/2025

BIG NEWS! Let's make it HUGE!

10/28/2025

With the Shutdown still in effect, and no obvious plan to stop it, we need to think more about how we can help folks who depend on SNAP for food - They're getting into serious pinch time - Please consider a donation to the food bank, or upping your current donation - There's no better time than now.

As you know, the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps, likely will be suspended on November 1 due to the ongoing government shutdown. I cannot tell you how many times folks have asked me, “Is the food bank prepared for no SNAP in November?” The honest answer i...

10/27/2025

News you can use, from the Opportunity Council!