A Beacon of Hope: Social Workers to Join Bellingham Downtown Library

Bellingham WA library is adding a mental health counselor

Bringing Compassion to the Forefront: Social Workers Transform Bellingham Library into a Haven of Support

Social Workers to Join in the Bellingham Library

In the picturesque city of Bellingham, Washington, where the tranquil beauty of the surroundings often belies the struggles within, a significant step forward is being taken. Starting January 1st, 2023 social workers will be stationed at the Bellingham downtown library, a move that is both a response to an all-time high in homelessness in Whatcom County and a beacon of hope for those in need.

The numbers paint a stark picture. At the last count, over a thousand people were found to be unsheltered in Whatcom County. It’s a staggering figure that demands immediate attention and meaningful action.

Malora Christensen, the Response Systems Manager at Whatcom County Health and Community Services, articulated the vision succinctly, stating, “Our goal is to meet people where they’re at.” These social workers won’t just be resources; they’ll be compassionate figures offering help and support. They’ll be there to assist with critical connections to resources and to navigate through difficult situations.

Christensen emphasized the human touch of the initiative. She pointed out that they’ll be present to recognize when someone is struggling and offer practical solutions. It could be a matter of transportation, or guiding them to a stabilization center, ensuring that the help offered is precise and effective.

The downtown Bellingham library is no stranger to those experiencing homelessness or going through personal crises. With approximately a thousand visitors daily, it’s one of the most frequented libraries in the state. Among its regular patrons are those facing the harsh realities of homelessness.

Margo Margoli, who has been visiting the downtown branch for over two decades, empathizes with those who find themselves in such challenging circumstances. She remarked, “Many of us have come close to times where we have to be creative with how we live and get some help.”

Christensen illuminated the transformative power of creating a safe, calm environment. Building rapport and offering assistance in a stable space can drastically alter the atmosphere, turning it from one of desperation to one of hope and possibility.

Rebecca Judd, the library director, firmly believes that the presence of homeless individuals is not driving away families or children. On the contrary, she envisions the new social worker program as a means to make the library more welcoming for everyone. She expressed hope that this initiative could save lives and provide immediate help to those teetering on the edge.

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For Margo Margolis, a regular patron of the library, this initiative holds promise. She believes it’s a step in the right direction. Instead of directing individuals to a distant place for help, this program is stating, “We’re right here.”

Looking ahead, Whatcom County has taken the next important step by putting out a request for proposals for additional behavioral health support services to be integrated into the Bellingham library. This marks a concerted effort to create a holistic support system within the heart of the community.

In the face of rising homelessness, Bellingham is proving that compassion and practical help can go hand in hand. By stationing social workers at the downtown library, they are not only recognizing the struggles but actively working to alleviate them. This move is more than an initiative; it’s a promise of hope, support, and a brighter future for the city and its residents.

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