Sumas, Washington: Forgotten?

The media reported the flooding in western Washington as it happened back in December 2025, but two months later, those whose homes had been affected are still displaced--waiting for insurance to kick in, waiting for their landlords to restore their rentals to livable conditions, waiting while the work to their homes is completed so they can return to normality, all the while forgotten by the masses, or so it seems. Fortunately, in Whatcom County there is a group of dedicated, caring volunteers whose mission is to help these people during their recovery period. The Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group is actively and currently helping to support these people in many practical ways.

It was by an invitation from a member of the Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group that After the Storm Care came to partner with them on Monday, February 9. We set up in the parking lot of the church in Sumas, Washington where their clients came that day. We met many people and were moved hearing about their trials, their discouragement, and their uncertainties. After hearing their stories, we prayed with them and offered them words of encouragement. We gave them emergency care kit backpacks, literature, children's clothing, blankets, and instructions to visit our website to apply for financial assistance.

Some of the stories shared with us included a mom whose children were so traumatized by the flooding that they experience terrible fear during any normal rainfall now. Another mom shared that her landlord my sell their home to FEMA--the very home where rent is affordable and has room for their very large family. She is concerned that if the landlord sells, her family will have a difficult time finding another affordable rental with the space they have now. Each person and family affected by the flooding has been faced with their own set of challenges.

Following is a story that Becky, one of our After the Storm Care volunteers, relates to us:

One family I met that afternoon was hit very hard by the flooding. They were renters so had to leave the rental home because it had over 20 inches of water in it. They had to clear all their stuff out of the rental and then the landlord came in and removed all the flooring and drywall and cabinets and everything else. The landlord is waiting for insurance to complete the reconstruction. In the meantime, this family is living in a small travel trailer. This trailer does not have a working shower and it's not insulated for cold weather. The husband and wife with three children were struggling to stay warm and have [their] basic hygiene needs met. The travel trailer is in a local RV park with a common shower house yet the owner of the RV park closed the shower house because it was getting filthy dirty. The wife of this family offered to keep the shower house clean, but the owner locked the shower house [door] for good. What is heartbreaking [to me] is to hear her describe how they have to spend five dollars per person at a local truck stop for a shower. So, with five people in the family and twice a week, that's $50 a week just for hygiene. My heart just broke knowing what they've been through, are going through, and will continue to go through. I was sobered knowing I had a warm home and hot shower. I was able to pray with her and offer some hope and encouragement. As Jesus walked among the people, He loved them, showed them sympathy, and ministered to their needs. I pray I can be like Him.

It's easy to forget that many are still struggling to survive and to thrive, yet many are still in the midst of this heartbreaking experience. We at After the Storm Care, are committed to sharing the spiritual hope that comes from our loving, merciful Creator as well as practical help. If you would like to make a donation to help people like those in Sumas affected by natural disasters, please go here to DONATE. Your gift makes a huge difference!