Albeit in the mist of the Coronavirus outbreak, the staff at Hotel Bellwether is set to receive $42,000 in two monetary contributions from a generous couple within the Bellingham community. Their desire to pay it forward comes at a crucial moment in the lives of our staff, as most have reduced to no hours moving into the next few months as the Coronavirus pandemic continues to stifle businesses in our local community.
Although Hotel Bellwether has been approved by the Washington State Unemployment Department’s SharedWork program – a program which other employees benefit during their temporary unemployment, many employees are facing challenges with shortfalls in their income. The couple hopes this act of kindness will generate a chain effect from others in the community who can help in any way possible during this time of uncertainty.
“We are privileged to be a part of a community that values the service industry, in helping recognize these hard-working individuals. This incredibly generous contribution will mean so much to them and their families. Thank you,” said Jim Haupt, General Manager at the Hotel Bellwether.
The donors, Bob and Kim, who insist on remaining anonymous, are members of the Bellingham community and frequent guests of the Hotel Bellwether. They have graciously reached out to the Hotel Bellwether during this time of crisis to contribute their first of two monetary contributions, a combined $42,000, to support Hotel Bellwether’s employees during this crisis. With this kind donation, regularly scheduled, full-time employees will receive two payments to help them through the shortfalls of their upcoming pay periods. Bob and Kim felt it was their duty to pay it forward given the resources they have to help others during this time of uncertainty.
“We hope this gesture of generosity will spread throughout the community to other hotels, restaurants, and bars in helping them and ways to assist their employees during this time of uncertainty,” they said.
The couple is hoping that this donation with spark others to come forward and lend a helping hand however possible and remind everyone that we, as a community, are in this together.
Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Hotel Bellwether and the Lighthouse Bar & Grill will be temporarily closed until government-mandated restrictions are lifted. The Hotel Bellwether is accepting reservations for future stays. As of now, the hotel is scheduled to reopen April 29, 2020. If you have a special group need in assisting with COVID-19 crisis management, call our direct line at (360) 392-3100 for assistance as the Hotel is more than happy to arrange services at discounted rates for those coming to the area and in need of accommodations.
The Hotel Bellwether is prepared to open immediately when travel restrictions and social distancing requirements are lifted.
