The recent floods we experienced at the end of 2025 left many local businesses with huge losses at the end of the year. At a time when most businesses see a holiday boost, our neighbors were forced to close their doors due to record rain, some incurring floodwater damage in addition to lost sales. The Skagit Valley Tourism Bureau is hoping you will help local restaurants, retailers and hotels as they work to repair and recoup.
“These aren’t just businesses; they’re our neighbors,” said Kristen Keltz, CEO of the Skagit Tourism Bureau. “Collectively, they lost hundreds of thousands of dollars during what should have been the busiest time of the year – when these businesses depend on holiday shoppers and diners to sustain them through the slower winter months. The most immediate way to help is simple: dine local, shop local, book a stay, and remind these businesses that our community has their back.”
Calico Cupboard Café & Bakery in La Conner, Mount Vernon and Anacortes is one of these locally-owned businesses that was affected. The La Conner building they lease has high water damage underneath, not covered by their insurance. Logs and debris are stuck around the plumbing pipes due to high water in the Swinomish Channel. Doyle Schmidt, husband of owner Brenda Schmidt, cleared the mess during low tide. The La Conner location was closed for one day and open a few half days. Their son, Hayden, moved two pallets of sandbags to secure their Mount Vernon location – and neighboring business Re-Feather Your Nest – both were closed for two days. The Anacortes location was also closed for two days.
“It was a very stressful time period, not only for business losses during peak holiday time, but lost wages for our staff,” shares Brenda. “Currently, we employ 100 employees.” Calico Cupboard Café & Bakery saw a loss of $39,000 in sales and their employees lost $15,753 in pay.
Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House in Mount Vernon was forced to close for two days, losing $50,000 in revenue. “This was a domino effect for many of us: We lost revenue as a result of the evacuation order demanding we close for two days, as well as lost revenue as a result of activities being cancelled that weekend (holiday concerts, holiday parties, shows, etc.),” says owner Paul Pickering.
How You Can Help Skagit County Businesses Recover from Flooding and Level 3 Evacuations
“While dozens of businesses were forced to close during the Level 3 evacuations, fortunately, the actual flood damage was less severe than anticipated,” shares Kristen. “However, the economic impact from lost revenue during the crucial holiday season was significant.”
And now it’s January. “We are helping spread the message that the most immediate and impactful way to help is simple: dine local, shop local, book a stay, and remind these businesses that our community has their back,” she adds.
January is usually a slow season for retailers. People spend a lot during November and December and tend to draw their purse strings a bit tighter. However, our local businesses need you to come out and support them now more than ever. Maybe head out and grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant. Shop local for your Valentine’s Day gifts, or plan a staycation at a local hotel.
The Skagit Table, which was closed for four days at a loss of $5,000 in sales and 50-plus house of labor, thankfully did not have any damage. Owner Courtney Bourasaw said they were grateful for the way the community has come together to help. “Just continuing to shop at the store and follow us on social media for events!” she says is the best way to keep helping.
“Make it a point to shop at businesses that are in the 100-year flood plain,” adds Paul.
“These aren’t just businesses; they’re our neighbors,” shares Kristen. “Their employees are still facing financial challenges from the wages and tips they lost during the holidays.”
So, turn off that Amazon app, grab that rain gear, and head out for a dinner, a breakfast, a night at the local hotel. Or maybe just to treat yourself to something new in 2026. They will be grateful for your business.
Flood Recovery Resources in Skagit County
Below are a few places where you can find help, volunteer or donate to 2025 flood recovery efforts.
The Bureau has a lot of resources on its website for those who need help or want to volunteer.
The Skagit Community Foundation also has activated the Skagit Disaster Relief Fund. Donate or apply on their website.
United Way also has a Disaster Recovery Fund.
Community Action of Skagit County has flood emergency information and other resources.
