The LUM Food Rescue Initiative: Proven Impact, Local Action

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Across Indiana and communities nationwide, food rescue initiatives have proven to be one of the most effective ways to fight hunger while reducing food waste. Studies and best-practice models show that redirecting surplus food strengthens food security, lowers landfill waste, and builds healthier, more resilient communities. At LUM, that impact is happening every day—right here in Greater Lafayette.

The LUM Food Rescue Initiative connects generous local restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores with neighbors in need. By rescuing safe, high-quality surplus food, LUM ensures that nourishing meals reach individuals and families through the LUM shelter, food pantry, and youth programs—rather than ending up in the trash.

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Why Food Rescue Works

Research and community-based programs across the state and country consistently show that food rescue:

• Reduces landfill waste and methane emissions
• Expands access to fresh and prepared foods for families facing food insecurity
• Maximizes the value of food already produced, purchased, and prepared
• Strengthens partnerships between nonprofits and local businesses

LUM’s program reflects these proven practices, translating national success into local, measurable impact.

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How You Can Help

Volunteers are the heart of food rescue. By signing up for a pick-up, you help transform surplus into support—often in under an hour.

You choose your level of involvement:

• Volunteer weekly, monthly, or just once
• Morning, evening, and weekend shifts available
• The LUM van is available for larger pick-ups or when personal transportation isn’t an option

One short trip can mean dozens of meals added to the shelter, pantry shelves filled, or youth programs strengthened.

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Current Food Rescue Partners & Pick-Up Times

LUM currently partners with the following businesses to accept regular surplus food donations:

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Join the LUM Food Rescue Team

LUM is also seeking volunteers to become members of the LUM Food Rescue Team, helping provide consistent coverage for pickups throughout the week. Whether you’re available a few mornings, evenings, or weekends each month, your commitment helps ensure no donated food goes to waste.

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Get Involved

If you’re passionate about sustainability, community care, and practical solutions that work, this is your moment. Email foodpantry@LUMserve.org to sign up, learn about training requirements, or join the Food Rescue Team.

Together, we can save food, share food, and reduce waste—strengthening our community while following a model that’s proven to make a difference.

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Rescue Food | Feed Your Neighbors | Reduce Waste

Calling all foodies, sustainability advocates, and community champions — this is your moment. LUM is on a mission to fight food waste and feed our neighbors in need. LUM partners with generous local businesses to rescue surplus food and share it with individuals and families through the LUM shelter, food pantry, and youth programs.

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Here’s where YOU come in. 

Sign up for a quick food pick-up — once a week, once a month, or whenever you’re available. Morning, evening, and weekend shifts are available, and the LUM van is available for transport, if needed.

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Available Pick-Up Times:

• Panera Bread – Tuesday & Wednesday evenings
• Starbucks – Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings
• Great Harvest Bread Co. – 3rd & 5th Saturday afternoons
• Fresh Thyme Market – Monday mornings
• Pay Less Super Market – Monday, Thursday & Friday mornings

If you’re passionate about reducing waste and helping your community, email foodpantry@LUMserve.org or click the button below to get involved.