Dear Friend,

This month, Congress narrowly passed into law two pieces of legislation – the budget reconciliation bill (H.R. 1) and the rescission bill (H.R. 4) – that will negatively impact our neighbors and communities. We are grateful to everyone who joined us in speaking out against these harmful bills. 

The reconciliation package restructures the U.S. economy by slashing programs that provide health care and food assistance to the most vulnerable, including refugees. At the same time, it significantly increases funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), an agency under scrutiny for detaining immigrants with legal status, including Afghan allies.  

The rescission bill cancels $9 billion in congressionally appropriated funding for fiscal year 2025, including $800 million from the State Department’s Migration and Refugee Assistance (MRA) program. These cuts could directly impact LSSNCA’s Reception and Placement services to refugees already in the United States, including Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders.  

These laws betray the core values that define our work: safety, welcome, support, and community – values we will not abandon. 

Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) remains steadfast in its mission to serve our neighbors across the greater Washington, D.C. region. As we have for over 108 years, LSSNCA will adapt, innovate, and meet the evolving needs of our communities.  

To this end, I’m proud to share the launch of LSSNCA’s Social Enterprise Services – a new strategic initiative designed to broaden our impact and create sustainable revenue streams to support our mission. Learn more about this initiative in the featured story below. 

With gratitude, 

Chief Executive Officer

Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area

LSSNCA is grateful to the CareFirst team members who volunteered at the LSSNCA Resource Center as part of CareFirst’s 2025 Week of Equity and Action. Volunteers packed nearly 100 backpacks, inventoried over 1,000 items, and restocked more than 120 clothing items. 

LSSNCA continues to serve Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders who have self-traveled to the United States and supports many new neighbors who arrived before January 20.  

Help us sustain our work by: 

• Donating – Your gift helps LSSNCA provide housing, job training, and other essential services to refugees.  
• Volunteering – Opportunities range from one-day events to longer-term mentorships. 
• Amplifying – Share our new Social Enterprise Services with your community on LinkedIn.