WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A local nonprofit is in desperate need of volunteers as the flood response effort continues.

The Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group, also known as Whatcom Strong, says it’s searching for community members to help with cleanup and recovery efforts throughout the week.

Volunteers are helping to muck out and tear out debris in flooded homes, clean up yards and remove general flood debris from towns that were hit.

Whatcom Strong spokesperson Ashley Butenschoen estimates that nearly 700 households have reached out for help following last week’s flooding.

She also says local businesses have been hit hard by the flood damage.

“Herb Niemann’s in Everson has been hit really hard this time, and they normally feed the community in disaster,” Butenschoen said. “Any time there’s a need in the valley, Herb Niemann’s stands up and takes care of everyone and they’re not able to this time because they’ve been hit so badly.”

Whatcom Strong mainly assists with residents’ needs, but a GoFundMe has been set up to support Herb Niemann’s recover from the flood damage.

Volunteers don’t need any prior experience, and Whatcom Strong says it will provide guidance and any needed tools on sit

Even those who can only offer a few hours are encouraged to help out.

To request assistance: www.whatcomstrong.com/resourceportal

Sign up to volunteer: https://www.whatcomstrong.com/volunteer

Herb Niemann’s GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-herb-niemanns-recover-from-flood-damage

Volunteer Check-In Locations and Hours:

Tuesday through Sunday:

Station 81 Fire Hall

101 E Main St, Everson, WA

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sumas Advent Christian Church

125 Front St, Sumas, WA

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.