In this edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap-Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares the Hunger Hike 2025 Highlights montage—just 59 seconds of inspiring clips from the kick-off event this past Sunday, raising funds for hunger relief locally, regionally, and globally. You can still help us reach our goal. See below for more information on Hunger Hike.

Lafayette Urban Ministry is proud to honor Vicky S. Woeste of West Lafayette as the LUM Volunteer of the Month for September 2025. A Columbus, Ohio native, Vicky retired in 2019 as a legal historian with the American Bar Foundation. Since 2017, she has brought her expertise and compassion to the Hunger Hike Steering Committee and the LUM Financial Assistance Program.

“What I love most about what we do,” Vicky shared, “is that every day LUM writes checks for (just about) everyone who comes in. Every single person is facing some variation on the ‘poverty tax.’” She adds, “Volunteering is always a soul-feeding experience. But at LUM it is especially true.”

Outside of volunteering, Vicky enjoys playing flute and piano, singing in her church choir, quilting, knitting, cooking, and cheering for Virginia & Purdue basketball — and the Chicago Cubs. LUM is grateful for Vicky’s generosity, energy, and heart. To read more about Vicky S. Woeste, click HERE.

Be Inspired: If Vicky’s story makes you want to get involved, visit LUMserve.org/volunteer or email volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691.

This past Sunday, the rain had passed, the clouds cleared, and Hunger Hike 2025 burst to life with energy, laughter, and community spirit! Hundreds came out in support—from Zumba dancers to Purdue Pete, elected officials, faith communities, local businesses, school groups, and the Purdue Crew Team. The day was alive with music, popsicles, hot dogs, clowns, face painting, magic, watermelon, and even a few relaxing massages—a true celebration of heart, fun, and generosity.

Even more exciting, the generosity of our community has been incredible—but we still need your help to reach our $115,000 goal! So far, Hunger Hike has raised over $100,700, or 87% of the goal, and every additional gift brings us closer to making an even bigger impact. A huge thank you to everyone who walked, donated, and cheered Hunger Hike to success.

There’s still time to make a difference! Every gift helps us get closer to our goal and supports our mission to fight hunger in the community.

Special Thanks go to our Event Sponsors, including the in-kind sponsors: Dream Dinners Lafayette for freezer pops, Zumba by Erika Smith & Amanda McNeff, Meijer for hot dogs and watermelon, massages by Essential Touch, magic by Scott Starkey - the Wizard of the Wabash, music by Sharon McKnight & Friends, and the clowns from Smiles Unlimited for face painting, and balloon animals & hats. To view all Event Sponsors, click HERE.

Make this holiday meaningful by giving back to your community. Start your day with the LUM Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk—a fun, family-friendly tradition that gets you moving before the big meal. Then, join us in supporting the LUM Community Thanksgiving Feast, where hundreds of our neighbors will enjoy a warm holiday meal, free of charge.

This fall and winter, Lafayette Urban Ministry needs YOU to help families, youth, and neighbors experiencing homelessness. Rising food, housing, and fuel costs have made your support more critical than ever.

Homeless Services: Your gifts, meals, needed items, or volunteer time at the Emergency Shelter and Winter Warming Station provide safety & hope to those experiencing homelessness. Learn more, click HERE.

Food Programs: Donate money, essential items such as dish soap and shampoo, or organize a collection drive at your church, workplace, or next event. Even purchases shipped from the LUM Amazon wish list make a difference. For a more unique experience, join the Food Rescue Team. Learn more, click HERE.

Youth Programs: The LUM After School Program cares for up to 70 students daily. Volunteer as an aide or tutor, donate, or contribute financially to give children a safe, fun, and enriching space. Learn more, click HERE.

Jubilee Christmas: LUM needs 100+ volunteers to host families, assist with shopping, and organize toy donations for 700 local families. Help by donating cash, toys, clothing, or other needed items from our wish list. Make the holiday season special for local children. Learn more, click HERE.

Step up today—your time, donations, and energy make an immediate, lasting impact. Get involved now and help LUM serve our community this fall & winter.

Financial Assistance Program

Food Pantry & Rescue