In this edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap Up, as Lent approaches, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, reflects on fasting, almsgiving, and service—and how LUM lives out these practices every day through shelter, food, and support for our neighbors. Please take 59 seconds to watch and share.

For more than 41 years - exceeding 15,000 nights in a row - we’ve opened our doors to our neighbors. And this winter, that commitment is being tested like never before.

After weeks of bitter cold, our 48-bed year-round Emergency Shelter remains full, with a waitlist since April 2024. Our Winter Warming Station, designed for 50 guests, has been operating beyond capacity on most nights. In January alone, we sheltered an average of 53 individuals each evening—some sleeping on mats, others on overflow cots—safe and warm, but in very tight quarters.

Even amid these challenges, we witness hope in action every night. Guests find not only warmth and food, but also dignity and a path forward. People like Stephen, Mack, Miranda (pictured above), Jo, and Tyrell remind us that these aren’t just programs. Many of our shelter guests return later with gratitude—and sometimes even donations—because they know firsthand what that lifeline meant.

With gratitude,

Wes Tillett, LUM Executive Director

The need for emergency shelter in Greater Lafayette is urgent. Our beds are full. Our Winter Warming Station is stretched beyond capacity. And winter is not over.

Every guest stays free of charge—but it costs LUM more than $20 per night to provide a secure space, a meal, fresh linens, showers, and warmth in winter. LUM relies almost entirely on the compassion and generosity of our community to keep our doors open every night and hope alive in Greater Lafayette.

Would you consider making a gift today?

• $20 provides one night of shelter
• $140 provides one week
• $600 provides one month

Your support ensures that no one in our community has to sleep outside in the cold.

Please give today and help LUM continue providing lifesaving, life-giving shelter for our neighbors.

LUM Hope for Tomorrow is more than a fundraiser — it’s a shared commitment to our neighbors and a stronger, more compassionate community. Join us Friday, April 10, from 6–9 p.m. at The Stine Barn at Prophetstown, West Lafayette. Benefiting Lafayette Urban Ministry, this inspiring evening supports food, shelter, and stability for local families.

More details to follow.

published February 5, 2026