Lutheran Social Services Seeks Christmas Gifts and Volunteers
Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) is inviting congregations and individuals to support its annual Christmas Drive, with a goal of providing gifts for 1,000 children and at least 500 towel sets for older adults. Donations are due Monday, December 14, 2026, by 1 p.m.
The Christmas Drive is one of several opportunities to support LSS-SW's mission of serving neighbors experiencing crisis and transition across Arizona.
Christmas Drive Needs
For older adults: New bath towel sets, with a goal of providing each recipient at least two bath towels and two hand towels. Cheerful or dark colors are preferred; please avoid white towels.
For children and teens: New toys, games, sporting equipment, arts and crafts supplies, and gift cards.
Gifts should be delivered unwrapped or in gift bags without tissue paper. Congregations interested in hosting a donation drive are encouraged to notify LSS-SW in advance.
Volunteer Opportunities
LSS-SW also seeks volunteers in Phoenix and Tucson to help prepare and distribute Christmas gifts. Opportunities include creating Christmas cards, sorting donations on December 15, supporting gift pickups on December 16, delivering gifts to refugee families December 16–24, and assisting with Christmas shopping events December 17–19.
Additional ongoing needs include refugee mentors, English tutors, apartment setup volunteers, and congregational co-sponsor groups.
To participate or learn more, contact volunteers@lss-sw.org.
The Ripple Effect: Stories of Kindness
LSS-SW has also launched The Ripple Effect, a storytelling initiative highlighting how acts of kindness transform lives. President and CEO Bobby Ghisolfo introduces the series, which will share stories from families, older adults, refugees, staff, and volunteers.
Founded through the commitment of Lutheran congregations to care for their neighbors, LSS-SW now has more than 400 staff members serving over 5,000 people monthly across four Arizona counties, supported by volunteers and nearly 100 faith-based groups.
These efforts reflect the Lutheran calling to love and serve our neighbors through practical acts of compassion, generosity, and accompaniment.
Watch The Ripple Effect introduction on YouTube and learn how everyday kindness continues to make a difference.
Visit Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest to learn more about its ministries and opportunities to serve.
