Base Camp
This first step to a new life
Base Camp is Bellingham's only 24/7, low-barrier emergency shelter. No appointment. No prerequisites. Just a warm meal, a safe bed, and someone ready to walk alongside you.
Get help
360-733-5120
How it works
From the street to a plan, in one evening
Every person who walks through our doors is welcomed. No referral needed. No background check at the door. Here is what happens next.
What we offer
More than shelter and a hot meal. Its a new beginning.
The Lighthouse Mission operates an enhanced shelter. It is a full-service hub designed to meet people at their point of need and connect them with the
right support.
What everyone receives
From the moment you walk in
Base Camp provides the most urgent services to those most in need.
Emergency overnight shelter
The mission provides a safe place to stay. Sometimes a good night's sleep is the first step toward a new life.
Meals
The mission serves breakfast and dinner. Sack lunches are also availible.
Case management
The mission works with individuals to help heal the whole person — going beyond the needs for food and shelter.
Medical respite
Dedicated mental health support with trained counsellors and a therapeutic environment.
Laundry and showers
Clean clothes and an opportunity to take a shower can be the first steps to a new life.
Mail and document storage
Receiving mail and storing important documents is critical to getting back on your feet.
Programs within our shelter operations
Ready to take the next step?
For residents ready to go deeper, the mission houses several structured programs designed to address the root causes of homelessness.
The Forge
Men's and Women's Shelter. A place of transformation and refinement, where resilience is built.
Restoration Ridge
Medical Respite Program. A sanctuary for healing and renewal.
The Den
Family Program. A safe and nurturing space for families to grow together.
Hope Horizon
Men’s & Women’s Behavioral Health Dorms (Opening Soon).
A place where new beginnings and brighter futures take shape.
Flex Dorm
Private accommodations for individuals with unique needs, ensuring safety and dignity for everyone.
360-733-5120
Daily life
Every day has a purpose
Every day, the shelter follows a rhythm designed to help people stabilize and move forward. Here is what a typicl
day looks like.
7:00 am
Breakfast is served. The day begins around a shared meal, the same way it ends.
Morning
Case managers meet one-on-one with residents. Plans are made, goals are set, next steps are discussed.
Afternoon
Life skills sessions, program meetings, and community partner visits. Residents in 90-day programs have access to their dorm space after lunch.
5:00 pm
Dinner service. More than 200 meals go out. Volunteers, staff, and residents share the same space.
Evening
Common areas are open. The day winds down.
Overnight
Our staff never sleeps on the job. Someone is always here, every hour of every night.
Inside the mission
A place built for people
A Veteran On Mission
"That’s when I realized I could keep working alongside all my friends."
Steven
Ascent Apprentice
See it in person
Want to see the mission up close for yourself?
Words and photos only go so far. Come see the facility and meet our team. Tours are available Monday through Friday for individuals, groups, and faith communities.
