Lydia Place’s annual garage sale in August netted more than $18,000 for the Whatcom County organization, which assists mothers and children in their transition from homelessness to independence.

The net total for the sale, conducted Aug. 14-15 in Bellingham’s Sportsplex, was the second highest in the organization’s 11-year history.

“We are so grateful for the community’s backing,” said Teresa Josephson, Lydia Place’s executive director. “More than 200 people donated items, volunteers contributed more than 1,600 hours and local sponsors and media were quite supportive.”

Founded in 1989, Lydia Place offers a six-month residential program at its Bellingham house as well as support for families in other residential facilities. Lydia Place provides more than 5,500 bed nights of safe shelter annually to women and children.

For more information about Lydia Place, call (360) 671-7663 or visit www.lydiaplace.org.