In November 2021, residents of Whatcom County, Washington, could not have anticipated the devastating impact that a series of atmospheric river events would have on their community. On November 14, the Nooksack River overflowed, flooding streets, farmland, and many homes. Kevin and Stephanie, a young couple from Sumas—a small farming community west of the Cascade Mountains—were among nearly 500 people who evacuated after receiving flood warnings.
The Nooksack River has a long history of flooding, with recorded events dating back to 1917. However, the financial damage from the 2021 flood was unprecedented—more than 1,600 percent higher than the last major flood in 1990. In Sumas alone, 85 percent of homes were affected, including Kevin and Stephanie’s.
When the couple returned home, they found three feet of water inside. The force of the flood had destroyed their bay window, and nearly everything stored on the floor was lost. In the immediate aftermath, they received emergency relief through local efforts, including the Long-Term Recovery Group, Whatcom Strong. Still, the road to recovery would be long. They were unable to live in their home for five months, facing uncertainty about how they would rebuild.
Insurance funds helped cover some of the extensive repairs, and eventually Kevin and Stephanie were able to move back in, setting up a temporary kitchen and living space on their dry second floor. With help from friends, they began restoring their home, but their insurance resources were eventually exhausted. Hoping for additional support, they reached out again to Whatcom Strong.
When World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS) partnered with Whatcom Strong, volunteers were assigned to assist with the couple’s recovery. With renewed hope, Kevin and Stephanie shared, “We are going to make our house a home again!”
DRS volunteers spent several weeks working alongside the couple, installing new vinyl plank flooring, replacing kitchen countertops, hanging doors, adding trim, and completing other essential repairs. Kevin contributed by installing new kitchen plumbing, while Stephanie completed the interior painting.
Reflecting on the experience, Kevin and Stephanie expressed deep gratitude:
“After the flood, our community met with local leadership, and through that, widespread volunteer effort and coordination helped us recover. Thank you.”
While initial estimates suggested that rebuilding after the Nooksack River flood could take years, collaborative efforts between local organizations, volunteers, and partners like World Renew helped accelerate recovery across Whatcom County. Today, stories like Kevin and Stephanie’s reflect the resilience of the community and the impact of people working together to restore homes and hope.
