As jurisdictions within Whatcom County come together in a comprehensive, coordinated approach to managing COVID-19, Phillips 66 Ferndale and BP Cherry Point refineries are helping to make that happen.
Phillips 66 provided an initial $60,000 donation, matched by BP Cherry Point to fund the use of The Response Group (TRG) to provide software for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) facility and training for EOC volunteers from agencies all the over the county. The funding will also enable the EOC to establish a website to centrally house all Whatcom COVID-19 Unified Command information for the public and to provide expert resources on appropriate topics.
According to Tim Johnson, director of Public and Government Affairs for Phillips 66 Ferndale, the donation reflects long-standing community relationships and support of the EOC’s vital role during crises.
“It is important to Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery to support this critical work,” said Johnson. “We are all in this together.”
Pam Brady, BP director of External Affairs, said, “We recognize the extraordinary effort of all emergency responders to combat this virus. We’re glad we can help support their vital work.”
John Gargett, deputy director of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office division of Emergency Management, said the donations demonstrate how the community’s major industries can make a difference in critical response.
“We value the relationships we have built over the years,” said Gargett. “It is important for the EOC – and for our community’s response and resiliency – to have this important software tool.”
Those who wish to donate to the community’s COVID-19 response or EOC capabilities are invited to contact WUC_Donations@co.whatcom.wa.us
