Who We Are
Since 1917, Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), a human services and immigration relief and refugee welcome agency, has accompanied those in need throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. to foster resiliency, self-sufficiency, and access to opportunities. We provide services that last beyond the initial arrival for families, youth, children, and individuals rebuilding their lives in the D.C. metro area.
Motivated daily by our belief in the inherent dignity of all, LSSNCA’s innovative participant-informed programs serve refugees, forced migrants, immigrants, children and youth, and underserved communities by filling in the gaps. Piloting initiatives like the area’s first camp for kids impacted by the HIV/AIDS crisis, originating local pro se asylum workshops for Afghan Allies, launching a Resource Center to serve as a community hub for all recently arrived program participants, and offering myriad trauma-informed mental health support services, LSSNCA strives to create thriving communities.
In Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), LSSNCA served nearly 5,500 individuals from over 20 countries living across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
From the Newsroom
LSSNCA helps unaccompanied refugee children rebuild their lives through foster care, education, legal support, and pathways to independence. Sam’s story is one example of what support can make possible.
LSSNCA, ArtLords, and Imanistan gathered with more than 60 community members at John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Annandale, Virginia to celebrate partnership, community support, and shared purpose through art, culture, and storytelling.
LSSNCA is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Monteiro to its board of directors. A longtime public servant and civic leader, Monteiro brings extensive experience across federal, state, and local government, higher education, and community partnerships to LSSNCA’s work with refugees, immigrants, children, and families across the Washington metropolitan area.
