We know that issues like climate change, the housing crisis, and access to continuing education don’t impact everyone equally. We also know that it can be hard for non-profit organizations to fund infrastructure projects that, frankly, can look pretty boring to funders. That’s why last winter we reached out to Lydia Place. Lydia Place’s mission, to“disrupt the cycle of homelessness and promote sustained independence for current and future generations,” is one that is close to our heart. Housing is a basic human right, and unfortunately, it’s getting harder and harder in Whatcom County for many folks to afford it. We encourage you to learn more about Lydia Place programs on their website. Suffice to say, we knew that we wanted to support them in whatever way made the most sense.
In early conversations with the folks at Lydia Place, Tally Rabatin, the Community Engagement Director at Lydia Place, mentioned a small construction project that they needed help with. One of their housing locations had a storage room that was essentially wasted space. While, simultaneously, service providers needed access to a quiet meeting space and bathroom while on-site. It was the perfect project for us to help with. Forest started by rallying a team of subcontractors who collectively took on the mission of renovating the space. The crew built out a beautiful, safe gathering space for families and service providers. This new functional space will provide for the basic needs of service providers (restroom and kitchenette, yay!) and will support residents in efficiently receiving services.
The dream team that brought the room to life were Spectrum Plumbing, North Shore Electric, Tyson The Builder supplied and installed the drywall, One Step Interior provided and installed flooring, Bellingham Millwork Supply donated lumber and the bathroom door, and CAZ Construction donated & installed a modern heat pump. We’re grateful for these other local business’s generous contributions. Thank you!
“Chuckanut Builders is proud to work within our community and to help the people and organizations that make Bellingham great. We enjoyed transforming this space knowing it would allow valued residents of our community to receive critical services in a safe and comfortable space.” – Forest Chiavario, Partner & COO
by Intellitonic