Homelessness count reaches record high in Whatcom County

The number of unhoused people in Bellingham and Whatcom County has reached an all-time high.

The latest point-in-time census report shows 1,059 people, from 850 different households, were either living in shelters, vehicles, tents, or on the street in Whatcom County as of January.

According to the Whatcom County Coalition to End Homelessness 2023 Annual Report:

"Between 2022 and 2023 there was a 27% increase in persons experiencing homelessness counted (from 832 persons experiencing homelessness last year to 1,059 this year). The number of households experiencing homelessness increased by 33% between 2022 and 2023 (from 639 households to 850 households). The numbers of both individuals and households counted in 2023 are the highest reported since counting began in 2008."

The Bellingham Herald also reports that there was a slight drop in the numbers last year, thanks to support programs created in response to the pandemic.