LP Outreach Team Returns to Adelaide Encampment to Distribute Food Pantry Proxy Meals

Sunday, November 23rd, 2025

This past Sunday, the Lumina Project conducted another outreach event at the Adelaide encampment, this time delivering the food and other essential items allocated via the St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry Proxy Registration detailed in a previous post. This program ensures that individuals without transportation or those with physical impairments can receive food from the pantry’s weekly or bi-weekly drives, delivered directly to them by a Lumina Project member. This initiative not only strengthens our partnership with SVDP but also helps us provide vital nourishment and basic necessities to a population facing significant barriers to access.

During this distribution, we returned with 8 single-family food packages, each one packed with a variety of nutritious and comforting items. Among the donations were: 40 Celsius drinks, 22 rolls of toilet papers, 8 assorted snack/candy bags, 8 bags of popcorn, 8 boxes of saltine crackers, 20 sets of plastic eating utensils, 8 boxes of cereal, 12 cans of green beans, 12 cans of mixed fruit, 10 cans of mac n cheese seasoning mix, 10 bags of dried fruit and nuts, 3 boxes of thin Sardinian crackers, 8 packages of chicken chili, 8 packets of premium white chicken, 8 cans of formal chili, 8 packs of jasmine rice, 10 packs of ramen, 8 cans of beef ravioli, 8 cans of vegetable soup, 4 containers of gummy bears, 8 packages of English muffins, 8 loaves of sliced bread, 8 packages of dessert bakery items, 28 apple cinnamon mini loafs, 7 six-pack white chocolate chip cookies, and 10 one-gallon jugs of water.

In addition to these food items, we were also able to provide personal care items such as stainless steel water bottles (4) and Delta Airlines donated pillows (8) - simple comforts that make a world of difference to those living in difficult conditions.

LP Co-Founders Parker & Quentin pictured with Wilma

As we arrived at Adelaide, we were greeted by an unfamiliar face: Wilma, a member of the local community who has been working closely with unhoused individuals for years. Wilma was not an encampment resident, but rather a dedicated volunteer, providing thick cardboard to weatherproof tents and 5-gallon buckets for water and waste management. Her deep knowledge of the challenges faced by the camp’s residents, particularly the ongoing battles with addiction, violence, and unstable housing, made it clear that she has forged close, lasting relationships with these individuals. Wilma’s compassion and commitment to the community were evident as she spoke about her work with Home Sweet Home Ministries, strong reliance and expression of faith, and her firsthand experience helping those in need.

Photos taken at the Adelaide St. Unhoused Encampment in Normal

Wilma shared some difficult truths with us, including the heartbreaking news of three deaths at the encampment this year, two of which were suicides. These losses highlight the mental and emotional toll that unhoused-living can take. She shared similar experiences of hostility, often over-shadowed by an overwhelming acceptance/friendliness from most inhabitants. She warned of various locations around town that may pose a greater risk, and recounted the same story we had heard previously about a dangerous machete incident. We also discussed the challenges of cold exposure, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes. Wilma explained how the harsh winter weather can lead to devastating outcomes, such as the loss of fingers and toes due to frostbite. This conversation reinforced the need for medical screening and intervention, such as the Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament (SWM) Test for neuropathy, which could help identify individuals at risk of severe nerve damage caused by cold exposure or diabetes.

Returning to the encampment and seeing familiar faces like Drew, Michael, Laura, Anthony, and Jamie was incredibly rewarding. Each person expressed immense gratitude for the food and supplies we delivered, and we were reminded once again of the resilience and strength of the people we serve.

Looking ahead, we are committed to sustaining and expanding our food distribution efforts. The realities of living without stable housing are ever-changing, and our goal is to adapt to these dynamic needs. From weather-related challenges to medical concerns, we will continue to offer solutions that provide both short-term relief and long-term support. We are excited to further our partnerships and explore new ways to serve the community, ensuring that every individual has access to the resources they need to thrive.

LP Outreach Team: Quentin, Parker, Nick (Left to Right)

How You Can Help

The Lumina Project relies on the support of generous volunteers, donors, and community partners to continue our work. If you’re interested in getting involved or know someone who is - whether by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word - please reach out to us. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for supporting The Lumina Project and helping us build a stronger, more compassionate community.