In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, shares the eighth in a series of Poverty Myth Busters. In this video, debunks the myth that, "If you're gifted and talented, even poverty won't hold you back from success." Please take 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE it with friends.

LUM is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community, especially during severe winter weather. This week an "arctic blast" and snowstorms hit our region, which triggered the LUM Winter Shelter Protocol to ensure no one is left out in the cold.

On frigid evenings & mornings, LUM provides critical bus transportation to & from the local day shelter to both the LUM Emergency Shelter and the LUM Winter Warming Station. Recently, the shelters have been at full capacity, hosting more than 90 guests each night—48 in beds and 44 on mats. Although space is limited, LUM ensures no eligible guest is turned away. When needed, chairs are offered to those who cannot be accommodated with a mat or bed. Every guest receives an evening meal and a breakfast snack to start their day.

LUM is incredibly grateful for the dedicated team of homeless services staff, volunteers, and bus drivers who worked tirelessly to provide a safe haven. LUM also appreciates the support from partners at the day shelter. {Pictured is Joy McKinney, one of the LUM bus drivers.}

You can play a role in helping LUM continue this life-saving work. Whether through financial donations, meal contributions, essential supplies, or volunteer time, your support makes a positive impact. Together, we can provide warmth, safety, and hope to those experiencing homelessness in our community. Join LUM in making a difference today.

Get ready for an evening of entertainment, community spirit, and generosity at We’ve Got Talent, an amateur talent competition featuring performances judged by a panel of local experts. This event will include an exciting live show, delicious refreshments, and a few surprises along the way.

THE BEST PART? Every penny raised goes directly to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund, an emergency financial assistance fund that provides critical support to local families and individuals facing unexpected hardships.

Event Details:

• Date & Time: Friday, April 11; doors open: 5:30 p.m. & show starts: 6:30 p.m.
• Place: St. Andrew United Methodist Church, West Lafayette, Indiana
• Donation: $35 per person; $280 per table (max. 8)

Join us at We’ve Got Talent for an unforgettable night and make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Together, we can help local families stay housed and thrive.

Can't Attend? Make a difference by donating directly to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund. Click HERE to donate.

Become a Sponsor: Interested in being the 2025 Presenting Sponsor? Email jprokopy@lumserve.org.

Want to Perform? Contact your church’s LUM Board representative or email jprokopy@lumserve.org.

Volunteer: Join our team and help make the event a success. Click HERE to volunteer.

This week, LUM is reflecting on the bitter cold challenges our neighbors endure. Many local families are working hard every day, yet they are ineligible for the government's Low-Income Energy Assistance Program. Thankfully, however, through your generosity to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund, these families find some financial relief.

Why Support the LUM Good Samaritan Fund?

1. 100% of Your Donation Supports Local Families: Every dollar helps with rent, utilities, and emergency needs.
2. Direct Impact: Last year, LUM provided more than $118,000 to assist 1,169 families in avoiding eviction and keeping their homes running, ensuring lights stay on, homes remain warm, emergency assistance is available, and the community is empowered.
3. Rising Housing Costs: Indiana rents have surged, increasing nearly 35% since 2019, leaving many low-income families vulnerable to losing their homes from unexpected expenses.
4. Helping Real People: LUM supports our neighbors—local workers, church members, and school aides—providing a lifeline during tough times.

Your donations to the LUM Good Samaritan Fund become a beacon of warmth, brightening winter for families who might otherwise endure the season without proper heating and electricity. Consider making a donation to help LUM meet its mission of ensuring that no family faces winter without the basic necessity of warmth.

Financial Assistance Program

Food Pantries & Rescue

Homeless Services

Youth Programs