Volunteers Struggle to Aid Flood Victims in Whatcom County

Donations drying up as hundreds remain displaced after devastating December floods

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nearly three months after devastating floods hit Western Washington, volunteers in Whatcom County are working to help people rebuild their damaged homes. But with donation funds running low and uncertainty over federal aid, many residents are still displaced and living in unsafe conditions. The recovery effort could take years, and local officials are focused on prevention for the next inevitable flood.

Why it matters

The floods in Whatcom County have left a long-lasting impact, with hundreds of residents still unable to return to their homes. This highlights the challenges communities face in recovering from natural disasters, especially when funding and resources are limited. The story also underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of flooding and other extreme weather events in the region.

The details

Volunteers with the Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group have been working to help residents repair their flood-damaged homes, with over a thousand volunteers assisting so far. However, the group's funds are set to run out at the end of February, and they are waiting to hear if the state will receive $21.3 million in federal aid requested by the governor. Many homes still have serious interior damage, and around 70% of residents had flood insurance, but high deductibles are a burden. In addition to home repairs, the recovery group has provided food, rental assistance, and emotional support to those affected.

  • The devastating floods hit Western Washington in December 2025.
  • The Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group was created after flooding in 2021 to help people rebuild their homes.
  • The group's funds are set to run out at the end of February 2026.

The players

Kyle Christensen

The former mayor of Sumas, Washington, who is now the director of the Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group.

John Perry

The mayor of Everson, Washington, and the director of community and advocacy with the Whatcom Recovery group.

Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group

A group created after the 2021 floods to fill service gaps and help people rebuild their homes in Whatcom County.

Gov. Bob Ferguson

The governor of Washington who has requested $21.3 million in federal aid to help repair homes across the state.

Nate Sanford

A reporter covering policy and political power dynamics facing young adults for KNKX, who is with the Washington State Murrow Fellowships.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We have a real strong community up here. It was a huge blessing and an encouragement to have that many volunteers.”

— Kyle Christensen, Director, Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group (dailyfly.com)

“Until we know what dollars we have coming in from those sources, and what type of funding that is, we really don't know how long it's going to take.”

— John Perry, Director of Community and Advocacy, Whatcom Recovery Group (dailyfly.com)

What’s next

Gov. Bob Ferguson is still waiting for a response from President Donald Trump on the request for $21.3 million in federal aid to help repair homes across the state.

The takeaway

The flood recovery efforts in Whatcom County highlight the long-term challenges communities face in rebuilding after natural disasters, especially when funding and resources are limited. This story underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of flooding and other extreme weather events, as well as the importance of having robust disaster relief and recovery plans in place.