Building a Compassionate Community, Together | | |
Greetings!
What a start to the New Year we have had. All around us, across our state, nationally and internationally, we are experiencing fast moving geopolitical shifts in the world as we know it. Across our country, nonprofits are having to make tough decisions in the face of changing funding priorities being rolled out by the federal government and the consequential impact these have on state and local government funding. Further, more and more individuals and families are turning to safety net agencies for support of their food, rent, and medical needs.
Minnesota is not immune to these changes, but in addition, we have been dealing with immigration law enforcement, which has resulted in fear, unrest, and the deaths of two citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. All of this has occasioned a serious reckoning across our state about who we are, what our values are, and the type of community we wish to be a part of.
Chum has long been organizing for a just and compassionate community, one in which every person has food, shelter, dignity, and hope; one in which racial disparities are eliminated. We resolve to continue being there for our community, to continue being a constant presence offering support to all who are experiencing difficulty, to continue being that social service safety net that’s available to anyone in our Northern region needing our services. We are committed to staying on that path that started back in 2022 – Growing for Greater Service. That’s why, since then, we have been introducing programs such as the St. Francis Apartments and Safe Bay. And that’s why we are now constructing a new shelter on our 2nd Street site.
We have been doing this together. Now because of current events, you, the good citizens of conscience and compassion, are rallying even more so in support of our neighbors. We are affirming our identity and striving to be the community we want to live in and of which we can be proud. With your support, Chum can continue being there for all in our community, pushing forward towards that vision of a just and compassionate community – growing so that we can do more, and do it better.
Together we can build better lives and be better neighbors for a better Duluth.
John Cole, Executive Director
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2026 Chum Extravaganza
In the midst of everything going on around us, promoting and attending an event that captures vibrant, colorful, joyous celebration is the last thing on everyone’s mind. We get it, as the weight of the situation is heavily on our minds as well.
Chum’s Extravaganza is on February 12th. This event is not only a space for delicious food, networking, and community, but a fundraiser that supports Chum’s operating costs, and allows us to fulfill our mission: providing basic necessities, fostering stable lives, and organizing for a just and compassionate community.
It helps us to continue meeting community needs, and advocating for those who need it most. Quite literally, your ticket helps keep the lights on, the doors open, and support available for people navigating hunger, housing instability, and crisis. We want community members to get an insight to what we do, and we’re hoping this event can serve as a catalyst for that. As we’re setting out to continue promoting this event, we don’t want to ignore what’s going on around us. Your Extravaganza attendance makes a difference in the Duluth community, but we don’t want community members to feel pressured to show up any other way than as you are in the moment. We see this event as a chance to not only further Chum’s mission, but to bring stories of the folks we serve to the forefront, and hold a space for being in community together.
We encourage those who would like to attend to come as they are. And if this isn’t the right moment, please know how deeply grateful we are for the many ways you continue to stand with our community.
February 12th, 5:30-8:30pm at the DECC Harborside Ballroom
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Free Community Education Series
Support a compassionate community through education! Stepping On Up is hosting a FREE! education series open to the public. All programs take place on the first Thursday of the month from 9-11am, with an optional free breakfast at 8:30am. This series is made possible thanks to Trinity Lutheran Church, the SOU Faith Community Housing Committee, the Northeastern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA, and our presenters.
February 5th, 2026: Understanding and De-escalating Conflict
March 5th, 2026: Recognizing and Responding to Violence, Neglect, and Trafficking
April 9th, 2026: Implicit Bias
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"Love is Here to Stay"
Chum is raffling off a one-of-a-kind quilt by local artist Jordan Sundberg/Tip Cup Design Co. Tickets are $5 a piece, with the drawing being held on February 12th, 2026 at 6:30pm. You do not need to be present to win.
Tickets are limited! If you are interested, please email pbenson@chumduluth.org to purchase a raffle ticket.
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Volunteer of the Month: Zach
"Zach has been with the food shelf for about 3 years. He has come in every Monday to pack boxes that we send out. He is an amazing volunteer and always has a smile on his face. Zach had his last day volunteering at the food shelf on January 26th. He will be truly missed, but is always welcome back!"
April LeDoux, Director of Distributive Services
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Chum Extravaganza Silent Auction -
We Need Your Help!
We are collecting items for themed packages to raise $12,000 for
Chum programs. Ideas include Adventure & Lodging (overnight stays, private boat trips),
Food & Culinary, Arts & Culture, Sports & Recreation, Self-Care & Wellness,
and Local & Duluth Favorites.
Questions? Contact Bud Trnka, Event Coordinator,
at btrnka@chumduluth.org or (218) 438-5381
Every donation helps!
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January Wish List Items
Hats, Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers
Winter Boots
Reader/Cheater Glasses
Cleaning Supplies
Full-size shampoo + conditioner
Towels of any size
Pet Leashes
Small Dog Beds
Reusable bags (backpacks, totes, duffle bags)
Pens
Coloring Books
Non-paint craft activities/supplies
Fidget Toys
Packeted Sugar
Canned or Pouch Tuna
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An Estate-Planning Checklist for the New Year
Have you recently created or updated your estate plan? Read more to learn about some of the key elements you should be sure to include in a complete estate plan.
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