Day Center

Page last updated on:

May 19, 2026

Project background

A new day center at 2020 Pacific St. will operate year-round to serve community members who are experiencing homelessness in Bellingham.

The day center – a City-owned building – will provide a safe, welcoming indoor space during daytime hours where people can access restrooms, basic needs support, housing-focused case management, and connections to behavioral health and other community resources.

According to the 2025 Point-in-Time-Count, more than 800 people are homelessness in Whatcom County, most of whom live in Bellingham.

There is no dedicated place in Bellingham or Whatcom County for community members who are unhoused to go during the day, so many people are forced to spend time in public places, sidewalks, parks, or trails.

We estimate the day center will serve about 50 – 75 people during daytime hours. The day center operator and other service providers will offer transportation to and from the center.

The day center operator will secure the area, ensure guests stay on the property during operating hours, and ensure guests leave the property after hours.

As we’ve done for other shelters or services, like the Way Station and Lighthouse Mission, we request the City Council approve a shelter protection zone, where sitting, lying, or camping on public rights-of-way and in vehicles is prohibited.

Project timeline

On March 30, 2026, the City issued a request for proposals to find a day center operator.
The operator was selected and began the contracting process on May 11, 2026.
Mayor Lund approved the purchase and sale agreement for the property on May 4, 2026. It will be sent to the City Council to be ratified after the 90-day due diligence period is complete.
The building will be renovated in summer and fall 2026.
The day center will open in fall 2026.

Costs and funding sources

Building purchase and renovation

Purchase price: $1.3 million

Estimated cost of renovations: $500,000

Funding sources:

Washington State Legislature’s Supplemental Budget ($1.03 million)
Community Development Block Grant

Day center operations

Annual operating cost: estimated at $500,000 – $700,000

Funding sources: We anticipate funding to come from opioid settlement funds and housing levy funds.

Questions?

Email us with your questions or concerns.

Homelessness Resources

We have programs and services to help those in need.