In this edition of Wes's Weekly Wrap Up, Wes Tillett, LUM executive director, offers his thanks for the astounding work done in the first half of 2022 — thanks to your kindness. Please take 56 seconds to watch the video and SHARE with others. See below for details on the impact of each LUM program.

Lafayette Urban Ministry is excited to report that 1,821 unique individuals and low-income households were assisted so far in 2022. LUM has nurtured and educated children, sheltered families, fed the hungry, supported the legal immigrant, and helped our neighbors experiencing homelessness become more self-sufficient.

Thanks to your compassion and generous support, LUM continues to make Greater Lafayette a better place for all of its citizens. Please remember LUM through the remainder of 2022 by participating in one of our upcoming events, volunteering, and/or by giving a financial gift! Go to LUMserve.org.

At a recent celebration at Subaru of Indiana Automotive, the SIA Foundation awarded more than $173,000 to Indiana nonprofits, including LUM. For the spring cycle, 20 organizations from 14 counties received capital grants — including a $13,986 award to Lafayette Urban Ministry. {Pictured receiving the big check is Pablo Malavenda, LUM executive program director (center), and SIA Foundation board members (L to R): Tom Easterday, David Rausch, Julie Cole & Ed Wulbrecht.}

At the LUM Emergency Shelter, there is a focus on health, cleanliness, accessibility, and safety each and every evening. Last fall, the LUM Healthy Shelter Initiative was launched and a comprehensive plan was put in place to make specific improvements. This $13,986 gift from the SIA Foundation will support this Initiative and will be used to purchase new bunk beds and mattresses. A few of the highlights of this Initiative are listed below.

Outreach is an important part of the mission of Lafayette Urban Ministry. Members of the LUM professional staff actively seek opportunities to promote LUM services, recruit volunteers, and educate people on issues relating to poverty, hunger and homelessness. Recently, LUM has been attending various community events, church services and group meetings — including the Community Health & Wellness Fair (pictured above). Come and visit the LUM table at these upcoming events: Indiana Fiddlers Gathering (6/25), Community Health Block Party (6/9), Global Fest (9/17), Hunger Hike (9/18), and Tippecanoe Latino Festival (9/24).

LUM staff members are available to speak or set up an information table for churches, civic organization, agencies, community events, and educational groups. To make arrangements for a presentation or event, call or email LUM (765-423-2691 | lum@LUMserve.org).

The LUM Summer of Service offers volunteer opportunities that fit every schedule. Some require training, but most just a willing heart and a helping hand. Below are two immediate needs. Sign up today — and share with others.

For more information, go to LUMserve.org/volunteer; or email or call Terri Anderson, the LUM volunteer coordinator (volunteer@LUMserve.org | 765-423-2691).