Dear Bellingham Senior Activity Center Members and Guests,
Across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have devastating effects. We appreciate how much you have already done to adapt during this challenging time. As you know, we have been taking preventive measures against COVID-19 for nearly two years to help keep our members, program participants, staff, volunteers, and your families safe. We have worked under some uncertain and often stressful conditions, and you have helped make it possible for us to continue our important mission.
The Whatcom Council on Aging has implemented a mandatory vaccination policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination for access to the Bellingham Senior Activity Center and participation in our in-person programming beginning Monday, December 13, 2021. WCOA’s mission requires us to provide a safe and welcoming environment for the high-risk population we serve. We are adopting this policy to safeguard the health of our program participants and the community at large from an infectious disease that may be reduced by vaccinations. This is also an important step as we work to rebuild our senior center program participation and restart our congregate meals in the future.
Bellingham Senior Activity Center members and guests can verify their vaccination by showing a copy of their vaccination card to the front desk at check-in. Our membership software allows us to record vaccination confirmation and will allow future access without having to present your vaccination card again. No personal or medical information will be recorded or kept on file.
Our organization is committed to serving all seniors in our community. We will continue to provide virtual programming, and home delivered or drive-up meals for those who are not vaccinated or are uncomfortable returning to in person programming. I am also proud to say our Board, staff and volunteers are all leading by example, and will be fully vaccinated by December 13th. We will continue to follow the information and guidance from our local health officials and lift this requirement when we can safely return to normal operations.
Thank you all for your commitment to the health and safety of all involved. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines, visit COVID-19 Vaccine Information | Whatcom County, WA – Official Website. Should you have any questions regarding this new policy, please contact me at (360) 733-4030 x1026 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Chris Orr
Executive Director