In this week's edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap-Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, presents a photo journal capturing the highlights of LUM Jubilee Christmas. Take a moment to view the 59-second video and consider sharing it with others to spread the impact.

This year’s LUM Jubilee Christmas, held at 28 locations, brought holiday joy to 697 households and 1,948 children. Powered by nearly 1,200 volunteers and countless donors, more than $250,000 worth of gifts, food, clothing, and books were distributed, making it a truly impactful event. By distributing $35,000 in gift cards and sourcing many items locally, Jubilee Christmas supports families while boosting the local economy, helping to reduce the need for emergency assistance in the months ahead. {Pictured: Wes Tillett, LUM executive director with Susie Riley and Kristi Evans, Jubilee Christmas co-coordinators at Trinity United Methodist Church.}

LUM extends thanks to Josh Prokopy, LUM Jubilee Christmas director, as well as the host site coordinators and volunteers for their dedication. For a full list of 2024 host sites, click HERE. To everyone who contributed time, donations, or energy, LUM is grateful for your support in making this holiday season brighter for these local families. Now, on Christmas morning, hundreds of parents will be the hero for thousands of local children, thanks to your generosity.

Raising $69,700 for LUM Homeless Services

The LUM 40-for-40 Campaign celebrated a record-breaking success, far surpassing its original goal of $40,000. This campaign, launched in October to honor the 40th anniversary of LUM Homeless Services, aimed to raise $1,000 for every year. LUM raised an incredible $69,698.99—nearly 75% more than anticipated. These funds will support the LUM Emergency Shelter, which provides nightly lodging, and the Winter Warming Station, a vital refuge during the coldest months.

This success reflects our community’s shared commitment to addressing homelessness. Special thanks to the Purdue FIJI Chapter and Klemme State Farm Insurance Company for their pivotal contributions. The need for shelter and winter services continues to grow, and your support is vital. Join us in providing shelter, support, and hope to those in need. Thank you for making this campaign a historic milestone. Together, we can create lasting change.

Join us in observing National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, preceding the weekend with the longest night of the year. This vigil is a time for us to gather as a community to honor and remember those in our community who have experienced homelessness and lost their lives. It is a part of a national day of remembrance to raise awareness about homelessness and its impact while honoring those we have lost.

• When: TOMORROW, Friday, December 20, at 1:00 PM
• Where: N 12th Street, Lafayette, IN (between Salem and Union Streets)

The event will be emceed by Jennifer Layton, President and CEO of LTHC Homeless Services, with a prayer led by LUM Chaplains and Wes Tillett, Executive Director of Lafayette Urban Ministry. The program will include a reading of names in remembrance, followed by an opportunity for attendees to share reflections. Hot chocolate will be provided by the Salvation Army of Lafayette. To support local homeless services, a Community Collection Drive for new hats, gloves, and winter essentials will also take place. This event is open to the public.

Norfolk Southern has awarded LUM a $12,500 grant through its Thriving Communities Program to support the LUM Good Samaritan Fund. The Thriving Communities initiative is designed to promote growth and resilience by addressing fundamental needs, enhancing well-being, preserving cultural identity, and improving neighborhood infrastructure.

This $12,500 grant represents a significant contribution to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund, which provides financial assistance to local households facing crises such as evictions, utility disconnections, and medical emergencies. The fund operates with no administrative costs, ensuring that every dollar directly benefits those in need. This generous support from Norfolk Southern strengthens the community and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in building resilience and stability.