It Takes a Village: Honoring A Lummi Family’s Journey Home

For over four years, a Lummi student and her family lived without electricity, running water, and a stable home. During this time, they also suffered the loss of their father/husband. Despite the mother’s hard work and perseverance, the overwhelming details and costs made it nearly impossible to move forward alone. When survival mode takes over—flight, fight, or freeze—sometimes, it takes a community to help turn hope into reality.

With courage, the student shared her family’s story through a video with the Nexw Xwelemi Tengexw NXT GEN Cohort of Community Engagement Fellows, hosted by Whiteswan Environmental (WE) and WWU at Whatcom Intergenerational High School. She spoke her “Can you help me?” truth from the heart, and the community listened—and took action.

In the spirit of WE—One Mind for the Purpose of the Work—people came together in a good way. Crews cleared the land, removed barriers, and laid the foundation for a new beginning. The Swan Family’s Song carried through the land, blending the sounds of work, determination, and laughter. With the support of allies, hope took root—not just in that moment, but in the relationships and collective care that made this possible.

Now, with hearts and hands united, the foundation has been poured, and the home is ready to be moved into place. The mother invested her life savings to give her children the security of living on their ancestral homelands, where they can finally thrive.

But the work isn’t finished.

We are raising $30,000 to offset costs and ensure this family has a safe, stable home and a foundation for a future beyond survival.

For over three years, this family waited for help. Now, the community has come together, and you can be part of this creation story.

Your donation makes a difference.

Every contribution helps this family transition from survival to stability, from waiting to belonging.

This is the work of WE—One Mind for the Purpose of the Work and our allied partners—healing through relationships, restoring land and community, and uplifting future generations.

Hy'shqe—thank you for your generosity, care, and support.

Donate today and help bring peace and comfort to this family's home.