Extend-a-Hand was there for caregiver grandfather dealing with loss of wife, damage to home

The Bellingham Herald’s Extend-a-Hand charity appeal, now in its fifth decade, partners with Unity Care NW and the Opportunity Council to help families like this one:

During the pandemic, WG lost his wife to cancer. Together for more than 35 years, they had been primary caregivers of their grandson since his birth.

Compounding his grief and stress, soon after his wife passed away, WG’s home suffered irreparable damages forcing WG and his grandson to seek emergency shelter through Opportunity Council.

With the help of their case manager, the family worked on setting new goals and budgeting, while the motel provided by Extend-a-Hand provided a warm and safe space for them to begin healing from their loss.

Now in a more permanent home, WG and his grandson will have the support of his case manager and rental assistance for a year while they continue to heal and work to rebuild their lives.

How to help

We hope you’ll consider also giving to Extend-a-Hand to help local organizations make big differences in small ways for Whatcom County residents who need immediate help with housing and health care all year long.

The Herald covers administrative costs up to $50,000 in donations, so gifts directly support people assisted at Unity Care NW and the Opportunity Council. Donations are tax-deductible, and donors through Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, will be recognized in The Herald.

▪ You can mail donation checks to Extend-a-Hand, c/o Opportunity Council, P.O. Box 2134, Bellingham, WA 98227.

▪ Donations are also accepted online via credit card or PayPal or by credit card using the form or QR code in The Herald’s print edition or by calling Kaitlyn Miller at 360-734-5121, ext. 333.