In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, reflects on the outrageous generosity and wholehearted hospitality of this past weekend's LUM Jubilee Christmas and also expresses his gratitude to each host site, donor and volunteer for making it possible. Please take 59 seconds to watch the video and SHARE with others. See below for more Jubilee Christmas news.

LUM Jubilee Christmas 2023 sparkled with festivity, warmth, and resounding success. This past Saturday, across 28 different locations, 662 households joined in the Jubilee Christmas celebration, bringing joy to 1,826 children. This monumental endeavor involved nearly 1,200 dedicated volunteers, boosted by the generosity of donors who contributed gifts, food, clothing, and books valued at more than $250,000. Jubilee Christmas stands as a remarkable, community-wide initiative.

Beyond its impact on individuals and families, LUM Jubilee Christmas plays a vital role in bolstering the local retail economy. Many of the gifts and most of the food are sourced locally, and $35,000 worth of gift cards find their way back into the community. The ripple effect extends further, as the program anticipates a decrease in clients seeking emergency rent and utility assistance through the LUM Financial Assistance Program in January and February. LUM Jubilee Christmas radiates its positive influence across various facets of the community. To view PHOTOS from Jubilee Christmas 2023, click HERE.

Our entire community came together to make Jubilee Christmas a memorable and joyful experience! Special thanks to Josh Prokopy, the LUM Jubilee Christmas director, and all of the JC Host Site coordinators, host sites & volunteers. (For a complete list of 2023 JC Host Sites, click HERE.) If you participated or made a donation this year, THANK YOU! And, Merry Christmas!

A heartfelt appreciation goes out to the generous members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 668 for their significant contributions to the LUM Protein Food Pantry & Westside Food Pantry. Timely for Thanksgiving, IBEW 668 donated 30 turkeys, and just in time for Christmas, they generously provided 30 hams. LUM extends sincere gratitude to IBEW 668 for their ongoing support, particularly during the holiday season, as they continue to contribute to the LUM mission.

If you, your company, or group would like to support the LUM Food Pantries, go to LUMserve.org/food-pantry or email or call (foodpantry@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691).

As the holiday season approaches, consider bringing a meaningful twist to your office festivities. Instead of the usual "gift exchange," opt for a collection of "needed items" for LUM. Whether it's after-school snacks for our students, cleaning supplies for the Emergency Shelter or paper & hygiene products for the LUM Food Pantries, each donation makes a difference and is deeply appreciated. Transform your holiday celebrations, both at work and at home, into more meaningful occasions by allowing your family, guests, and colleagues to contribute to local families in need.

Explore the complete LUM Wish List of needed items by clicking HERE. Let's come together to make this holiday season a time of giving and sharing.

Join the LUM Team as the Development Director! An exciting opportunity awaits!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the community? Do you have a flair for fundraising and building lasting connections? Look no further – LUM is searching for a dynamic individual to fill the crucial role of Development Director.

Ready to elevate your career while contributing to a noble cause? Join us in making a difference. Apply now and be a catalyst for change! Please share with others.