In this edition of Wes’s Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, reflects on the significant increase over the past six months in the number of households seeking financial assistance to prevent eviction and utility disconnection.

LUM invites you to take just 59 seconds to watch the video—and consider sharing it with others who may be interested in the important work being done at LUM. See below for more information about the LUM Financial Assistance Program.

The LUM Financial Assistance Program is facing a dramatic increase in demand. LUM uses year-over-year trend analysis to forecast demand—and this year’s data is sounding the alarm. Over the past five years, requests for help with rent and utility bills have steadily climbed—but the first six months of this year have been particularly alarming, especially due to soaring energy costs (see chart above).

Since the end of the COVID eviction moratorium, rents in Indiana have continued to rise, and in 2025, utility providers have requested significant rate hikes. Preventing eviction keeps families housed and reduces demand on emergency shelters. But the challenge is growing. Federal cuts to food assistance, health insurance, and Medicaid are looming, threatening to deepen the hardship for many. Indiana is experiencing a genuine affordability crisis: escalating rent without caps, spiking energy rates, and insufficient federal support. Supporting the LUM Financial Assistance Program now is not only timely—it’s essential.

Still, LUM remains hopeful. Time and again, this community has stepped up when our neighbors are in need. Please consider a gift to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund — 100% of your donation helps local families avoid eviction and utility shutoffs.

If you’re unable to give, please keep LUM in your thoughts and stay informed about the growing need.

Time is running out. In just 19 days, 84 children from our community are scheduled to attend LUM Camp—a life-changing week of learning, laughter, and love. But we can’t do it without you. LUM Camp is only possible because of generous individuals like you. While families are asked to pay just $5 per child, the actual cost of LUM Camp exceeds $300 per camper. The rest must be covered by donor support.

Your gift helps provide everything a child needs for the week: transportation to & from camp, room & board, nutritious meals and snacks, engaging activities, educational enrichment, and all necessary supplies.

Would you consider making a gift today to support a child’s unforgettable experience? A donation of $300 sponsors one camper. $600 sponsors two. $150 covers half a sponsorship. LUM Camp starts soon. Please give today—and help change a child’s life.

Food Programs & Christmas Assistance Director

Part-time | 18.75 hrs/week | $500/week

Lead four key programs: the Food Pantry, Food Rescue Initiative, Thanksgiving Feast, and Jubilee Christmas. Requires strong leadership, community focus, and a passion for serving others with dignity and compassion.

Senior Human Resources Generalist

Part-time | 28 hrs/week | $865/week

Oversee all HR operations, support staff development, and shape a healthy workplace culture. Requires HR expertise, excellent communication, and a commitment to LUM’s mission of service, justice, and respect for all people.

Both roles offer flexible schedules, paid time off, and professional development support — all while making a meaningful impact in our community. Apply online today and please share with others who may be interested.

Make this Fall season meaningful by joining Lafayette Urban Ministry in building a stronger, more compassionate community. Mark your calendar, rally your friends, and help make a real difference—together.

Hunger Hike 2025

Sunday, September 21

Join the fight against hunger—locally, regionally, and globally! Walk, fundraise, and raise awareness. Create a team, donate online, or become a sponsor. Every step you take helps feed our neighbors. Details and fundraising tools at hungerhike.org.

Community Thanksgiving

Thursday, November 27 | Noon – 2 p.m.

Join us in serving more than 900 guests a traditional Thanksgiving meal at Central Presbyterian Church. You can help by preparing food, volunteering, or making a donation. Be a part of something truly special.

Turkey Trot 5K Run

Thursday, November 27 at 8 a.m.

Start your Thanksgiving morning with this fun, family-friendly 5K on the Cattail Trail at Celery Bog in West Lafayette. Runners, walkers, strollers, wagons, dogs, and turkey hats are all welcome. All proceeds support LUM programs for local families.

Jubilee Christmas

Saturday, December 13

Brighten the holidays for more than 600 families and 1,800 children. Parents shop for free toys, clothing, and receive food cards and homemade cookies. Support by donating, volunteering, or becoming a host site.