Bellingham Launches Hate Crime Victim Support Program

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  Bellingham Police Department announced the launch of a new program“The new Safe Place™ program officially launches today, November 19, 2025.”
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  The new program supports victims of hate crimes“The new Safe Place™ program officially launches today, November 19, 2025. Participating businesses display a Safe Place™ decal on their business window at eye-height, where they are easily seen by anyone walking by. Victims of hate crimes can enter any of these businesses and ask for help. Staff will give them a safe place to wait and call 911 for them. The Safe Place™ program aims to begin the process of empowering those against whom a hate crime is committed to report the incident immediately, so a proper investigation is started swiftly.”
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  The initiative provides resources for individuals affected by hate-motivated incidents“The new Safe Place™ program officially launches today, November 19, 2025. Participating businesses display a Safe Place™ decal on their business window at eye-height, where they are easily seen by anyone walking by. Victims of hate crimes can enter any of these businesses and ask for help. Staff will give them a safe place to wait and call 911 for them. The Safe Place™ program aims to begin the process of empowering those against whom a hate crime is committed to report the incident immediately, so a proper investigation is started swiftly.”
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  The initiative provides advocacy services for individuals affected by hate-motivated incidentsNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The program aims to improve response coordinationNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The program aims to improve victim assistance within the community“The Safe Place™ program aims to begin the process of empowering those against whom a hate crime is committed to report the incident immediately, so a proper investigation is started swiftly.”
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  Police officials emphasized the importance of addressing hate crimes“"We want victims of hate crimes to know you will be heard, treated with care, dignity, and respect by the businesses you enter, as well as by our police officers who respond to take your report and complete the investigation," said BPD Chief Rebecca Mertzig.”
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  Police officials emphasized the importance of addressing hate crimes through structured support systems“"We want victims of hate crimes to know you will be heard, treated with care, dignity, and respect by the businesses you enter, as well as by our police officers who respond to take your report and complete the investigation," said BPD Chief Rebecca Mertzig.”