Donations to Extend-a-Hand top $36,000

Community members have donated $36,659 far this holiday season to Extend-a-Hand, The Bellingham Herald charity that helps needy Whatcom County residents with rental housing through the Opportunity Council and with medical prescriptions through Unity Care NW, formerly Interfaith Community Health Center.

The Herald covers administrative costs for up to $50,000 in donations, so most gifts directly support people in need. Last season, people donated $46,225.

Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to Extend-a-Hand, c/o Opportunity Council, P.O. Box 2134, Bellingham, WA 98227. Donations also can be dropped off at the Opportunity Council at 1111 Cornwall Ave. Credit card donations are accepted. Details: Jackie Lafata-Rinker, 360-734-5121, ext. 333.

This story was originally published January 8, 2016 at 2:21 PM with the headline "Donations to Extend-a-Hand top $36,000."