BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A Bellingham family that was formerly homeless now has a home for the holidays!
KING 5 first brought you the story of the family in August when they were living in an RV and struggling to make ends meet.
Since then, hundreds of viewers reached out to help them. The family says they are so grateful for the new roof over their heads and the kindness of strangers who helped make it possible.
The family said the couple’s six children are all in school, doing well, and enjoying their bedrooms and new living space.
Troubles for David, Cassandra and their children first started during the pandemic. David owned a tattoo shop in Florida where the family had a home. However, the family moved to Georgia to care for a sick parent. When David’s mom died, the family moved to Washington to be near friends.
Money ran out, and the family began living in an RV and later in a motel.
David works full-time as a tattoo artist, and Cassandra has decided to return to work as the family continues to get on their feet. She's attempting to get her own home cleaning business off the ground.
With the help of Lydia's Place, a Bellingham nonprofit that helps families in homelessness, a realtor with Real Property Management and donations from the community, they made their dream a reality.
Cassandra told KING 5 this is the first time they've been able to decorate for Christmas in several years.
Ways to help other families in need
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law requiring every public school district to hire a local liaison to help homeless youth.
For families of students needing help, it’s a great resource. Under this act, homeless kids are able to enroll in school, even if they don’t have all the proper paperwork, like ID cards or birth certificates. They also get free access to after-school programs and free immunizations.
Organizations to get involved with and support
Whatcom County:
Clallam County:
Ferry County:
Grant County:
Grays Harbor:
King County:
Kitsap County:
Kittitas County:
Pierce County:
San Juan County:
Skagit County:
Thurston County:
Statewide: