Restoration/Urban Ministries

Restoration Urban Ministries (RUM) is located at 1213 Parkland Court near Mattis and Bradley Avenues in Champaign. It is the only facility in Champaign-Urbana that serves as a transition space for homeless families. Other facilities in our area serve men, or women and children, but not families. Residents are expected to conform to a strict discipline of behavior and abstain from the use of drugs or alcohol. RUM is a totally private program based on the principals of Jesus Christ. RUM was started in 1993 by Rev. Ervin Williams and he continues today as director. RUM is totally dependent on the donations and contributions from local people, businesses, and Churches. RUM offers a structured program that is designed to not only house and support the individual but also provide training in order that they might become self-sufficient. RUM wants to teach people the skills and discipline necessary to be successful in life. Participants receive counseling, personal and spiritual support, and skill training necessary to achieve their goals. Presently, residents spend approximately nine-months at RUM before moving on. A new RUM sponsored program provides training for specific technical skills. These include professional cleaning of offices and other facilities, flooring installation, retailing, and business ethics. RUM also presently runs a thrift shop located on Bradley Avenue just west of Prospect Avenue. The objective of this shop is to provide some support for RUM operations and provide training opportunities.  Food distribution to those in need continues as a major RUM program. The bulk of food distributed comes from donations and the Eastern Illinois Food bank. RUM distributes more food (with prayer!) than any other agency in our county. First Presbyterian Church directly supports this program. Past support for RUM by First Presbyterian Church has included funds for their operation and separate funds for the food program. Special additional donations have been provided for Appliance repair and last year they were given a truck. Volunteers are always needed to help in teaching the “Life Skills” program. Volunteers with experience in building and maintenance are always in high demand. The food distribution program can always use help. If you are interested in helping in any way with the Restoration Urban Ministries Mission, either call or pay them a visit directly, or call or see Whit Daily, Community Mission Deacon Representative.