WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — The American Red Cross opened phase 2 of its bridge financial assistance program for residents with primary homes damaged during floods in December 2025. This program provides non-repayable aid to residents whose homes sustained major damage or were destroyed.
Phase 2 is for long-term recovery needs that remain unmet after initial emergency aid.
Major damage is defined as floodwaters reaching 18 inches in the first floor living space or water reaching the floor system (insulation/ductwork) in a way that makes the home currently uninhabitable. Residences that remained habitable during the repair process are not eligible for this phase of funding.
Staff are available for in-person application support at Whatcom County Fire District 1 Station 81 in Everson on April 21, 2026, and April 22, 2026, from 10am to 4:30pm. The assistance is intended for recovery expenses including groceries, clothing and essential home repairs. The official Red Cross guidance also emphasizes “unmet recovery needs,” which includes essential repairs not covered by FEMA or insurance.
According to Whatcom County Official Records, a series of atmospheric rivers from December 5–19, 2025, caused the Nooksack River to overflow, exceeding 2021 record levels in Everson, Nooksack and Sumas.
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