BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A new shelter that will offer emergency support for women and their young children is opening its doors in March.

YWCA Bellingham is celebrating the opening of its new shelter on March 17.

The shelter, located near the intersection of Lakeway Drive and Ellis Street, can serve up to 19 women with children ages ten and under, including pregnant women.

Its main focus is to transition visitors into permanent housing, but it also offers intensive case management, physical and behavioral health support and access to community resources.

According to Whatcom County health data, there are roughly 118 unhoused single women with children who could be eligible to stay at the shelter.

“Local data show that there is a great need for housing and shelter services that meet the unique needs of women and young children,” said Alle Schene, Chief Executive Officer of YWCA Bellingham. “We are grateful to be able to provide some much-needed support in our community to those who are particularly vulnerable.”

The $2.2 million facility is being financed by Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham, with the city providing funds through a repayable loan.

It’s expected to begin operations in March and will continue to offer its services for 20 years.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the building takes place from noon to 1 pm on Monday, March 17, at 315 Lakeway Dr.