Community Highlight: Bellingham Resources
Bellingham, Washington, offers numerous resources to its residents to ensure a thriving, supportive community. The Bellingham Public Library is a vital intellectual hub, providing access to a wide variety of books, digital media, and educational programs. The Bellingham Senior Activity Center is a lively gathering place offering an array of recreational and social activities for seniors. To address food insecurity, the Bellingham Food Bank offers essential services, providing meals to those in need. Bellingham's Parks and Recreation department enhances quality of life by maintaining beautiful parks and offering diverse recreational activities for all ages. Lastly, the city's safety is ensured by the dedicated personnel of the Bellingham Police and Fire Departments, who work tirelessly to protect and serve the community. See below for more information and resources available in and around Bellingham.
Bellingham Public Library
The Bellingham Public Library serves the residents of Bellingham and Whatcom County, circulating over 1.6 million items annually to almost 60,000 active cardholders. This library is known throughout the state and nation for its high use among community members. In state-wide data, Bellingham Public Library consistently ranks among the highest circulation per capita and among the most-visited. They provide services through locations including downtown’s Central Library, Fairhaven Branch Library, Barkley Branch Library and the Bellis Fair Branch Library pilot project. It offers meeting rooms, digital library services, programs, classes, special events, and more. Learn More
Bellingham Senior Activity Center
The Bellingham Senior Activity Center was established in 1961. They directly operate a 1,600+ member senior center in Bellingham. They coordinate wellness programs for seniors including strength and balance classes for fall prevention, strength training classes, Tai Chi, dancing, walking and hiking groups, flu shot clinics, and a variety of other classes and activities. Whether you’re interested in art, health & wellness, computer skills, current events, dancing or socializing with friends, you’ll find a wealth of fun-filled activities to educate, stimulate and entertain you at the Center. Learn More
For more resources for seniors, visit Whatcom Council on Aging HERE
Bellingham Food Bank
Since 1972, Bellingham Food Bank has provided free food in Whatcom County. They serve roughly 4,000 household visits a week and offer a free grocery program, drive through, and home delivery. They also help to distribute millions of pounds of food to the Whatcom County Food Bank Network. It is community-driven and couldn’t function without the support from donors, volunteers, and partners. In 2022, the food bank clocked over 20,500 volunteer hours and 80% of our funding came from community members. Learn More
Whatcom Homeless Service Center
Provides local housing services, information, resources. It also has resources for landlord/tenant rights, resources and information. For nearly 60 years, Opportunity Council has worked throughout Northwest Washington to build just, equitable communities through service, investment, and collaboration. Their mission is to help people improve their lives through education, support, and direct assistance while advocating for just and equitable communities. Part of a national network of Community Action Agencies, they are dedicated to helping people help each other and themselves—building a community where everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute. Learn More
Sun Community Service
Sun Community Service has been providing post-crisis emergency housing and permanent supported housing for people with serious, chronic behavioral health issues since 1975. Sun’s Mission is to embrace homeless people who have mental illness wherever they are in life, and to support them to make a home. Learn More
Bellingham Parks and Recreation
The Parks and Recreation department offers a plethora of activities and facilities to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle within the community. The Aquatic Center is a popular spot, providing various swimming lessons, recreational swim times for all ages. Community parks serve as the perfect backdrop for picnics, playdates, and sports activities, while an array of classes and activities cater to diverse interests. Sports enthusiasts can participate in organized leagues or enjoy a friendly match in well-maintained fields and courts. The community also hosts numerous events throughout the year to foster unity and celebrate local culture. For those seeking tranquility amidst nature, extensive trail networks offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird-watching. Facility rentals enable residents to host private events in beautiful community spaces. Golfing enthusiasts aren't left out either; they can practice their swing and enjoy a game at lush, on the golf course. Learn More
Bellingham Fire Department
Offers resources including Emergency Management, Fire Operations, Fire Station Tours and Presentations, Life Safety, Outdoor Burning information, Safety Education, and Community Paramedic Program. Learn More
1800 Broadway, Bellingham WA 98225
Bellingham Police Department
They can help you with and provide a variety of resources including Traffic Collisions, Filing a Police Report or Tip, Requesting a Police Report, Fingerprinting, Property Retrieval, Concealed Pistol License, Conviction Background Checks and more. Learn More
505 Grand Ave, Bellingham WA 98225
(360) 778-8800
For more information on Bellingham, including area guide visit HERE
