Dear Friends,

It’s been a challenging and uncertain month. The administration has enacted harmful changes to the refugee and asylum programs – from indefinitely suspending refugee admissions to issuing a stop work order to provide essential wraparound services to recently arrived refugees and freezing funds for organizations that provide services to refugees. These policies are a dramatic shift from our nation’s legal obligations and long-standing legacy of welcoming people fleeing life and death situations and seeking refuge from persecution.  

Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) is steadfast in our commitment to support our new neighbors as they rebuild their lives. Why? Because the call to welcome newcomers is a deeply held value of our faith and nation’s identity.  

Over the past two weeks, I’ve met with U.S. Senators, House Representatives, and their staff to shed light on the impact of the administration’s actions. I’ve shared that hundreds of refugees are at risk of food insecurity and homelessness, including Afghan allies who risked their lives to support U.S. military and diplomatic missions. I shared that LSSNCA was forced to lay off or furlough team members due to the ongoing funding freeze, many of whom themselves are refugees or immigrants. I have also shared how you, our community, have shown up to support refugees through your donations, volunteerism, and advocacy. 

We are grateful for our elected leaders speaking out and urge more to denounce these actions causing real harm to real people in our communities. 

With gratitude, 

CEO, LSSNCA

LSSNCA continues to support refugees. This month, in partnership with George Mason University, LSSNCA welcomed its second cohort to the Refugee and Immigrant Success through Entrepreneurship (RISE) Program. This program provides participants with the necessary knowledge and tools to begin their own businesses.  

The first month of the administration has placed hundreds of our new neighbors at risk of food insecurity and homelessness – while also jeopardizing LSSNCA’s operation. Join us to ensure we can continue to welcome people seeking safety during this difficult time — call your member of Congress, donate, or volunteer.  

Save the date

You are invited to an important panel conversation on March 18 at 7 PM with our CEO, Kristyn Peck, Pastor Mark Hricko of The Lutheran Church of St. Andrew, President Bill Harmon of Southeastern District, LCMS, and Yared Halche, Executive Director of Witness and Inter-ethnic Ministries, Southeastern District, LCMS. The panelists will discuss the challenges facing our neighbors, the Lutheran community's proud history of support, and how, together, we can continue to be a welcoming community.

Don't miss out—RSVP at office@mystandrew.org and be part of the conversation!