WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – New resources are coming to support senior housing in rural Whatcom County.

The Bellingham and Whatcom County Housing Authority (BWCHA) says it’s secured enough funding to begin repairing Sumas Square Apartments.

The 11-unit housing development for seniors was severely damaged by flooding in November 2021 and all of its residents were forced to relocate.

Now, funds from the state Department of Commerce, FEMA and insurance proceeds have cleared the way to make the necessary fixes.

“Funding for a rehab project like this can be challenging to come by. We are immensely grateful to have the State’s support to move this project forward,” said Andrew Calkins, Executive Director of BWCHA.

Construction is scheduled to start in 2026, and it’s expected to start taking in residents in 2027. Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity announced that it has received a $15,000 grant from AARP for a home repair project in Maple Falls, Sumas, Everson and Nooksack.

The project will support up to 20 low-income homeowners age 50-plus with tasks such as roof fixes, wheelchair ramps and yard cleanup.