Extended times to accommodate the cold winter weather
Bellingham is experiencing an extra frosty season, and there’s no reason to fret about getting out of the cold. The Lighthouse Mission’s Drop-In Center has extended its hours to accommodate for this extreme winter weather.
The center is now open four hours earlier, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday The opening matches with the Interfaith Severe Weather Shelter, which began Monday, Dec. 2, and is open from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m, to accommodate the hours not covered by the Mission. The Lighthouse Mission’s men and women’s Cold Weather Shelter is also open from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. in the main building. On the weekends, the Chapel is open allowing guests to get out of the cold.
The Drop-In Center provides a safe, warm and comfortable environment for guests to come in and play Ping-Pong, read books or magazines, participate in a chess tournament or watch a movie. The Center is usually closed in the mornings to encourage guests to be working or job seeking, but with the cold weather, working goals are put on hold in order to keep them protected from the bitter winds.
Justin Reeves, Drop-In Center Supervisor, hopes to do another collaborative art project with guests at the Mission. In the past visitors have participated in painting individual pieces of a picture to put together to create a unique, beautiful piece of art. Members of the community are also welcome to donate some of their time and get involved as a volunteer.
“Volunteers are encouraged to come in and share, or even make, a cup of coffee with our guests,” Reeves said.
To become involved in volunteering at the Lighthouse Mission’s Drop-In Center contact Jessica Hess, Volunteer Coordinator at jessicalh.lmm@gmail.com or (360) 733-5120, ext. 107. Or fill out an online application here and Jessica will contact you.
