I'm excited to join CHUM and community partners to  raise awareness about homelessness in our community.  As you may know, homelessness is rising in our community. The CHUM shelter is at or near capacity every night. 

I have supported CHUM since the inception of hte Rhubarb Festival in 2004. During that time I have served as the CHUM Congregtional Liason for First Lutheran Church, served on the CHUM Food Shelf Advisory Committee, as a volunteer as at the Food Shelf, as a Member of the Board of Directors, not to mention the Rhubar Festival Baking and Food Coordinator. During my time with CHUM I have enjoyed and appareciated all of you who have served as volunteers and supporters with me.

First Lutheran has been a significant sponsor through hosting all 15 CHUM Rhubarb Festivals which have raised significant fudning for CHUM and our neighbors served through the Food Shelf, Steve O'Neil Apartemnts, the CHUM Ceenter and Homeless Shelter.  The need is great. 

30 families, 59 children, and 1135 adult neighbors in Duluth lack shelter and struggle more now than ever with food insecurity, mental illness, addiction, violence, and the anxiety of an uncertain future. Homelessness has risen in our community since 2019 by 18%.

Because you have all beens so gracious in supporting the Rhubarb Festival and CHUM over the years, please join me in making this Virtual Fundraising event successful. You may make a direct contriburion and/or join in the fun of the virtual silent auction.   

Char Juntunen

Thank you for your participation in the 2020 Virtual Fundraiser & Silent Auction benefiting CHUM.