Advocating for Dignity: LSS-SW Prepares for a Challenging 2026

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is preparing for a challenging 2026, as state leaders warn of a tight Arizona budget and federal officials propose changes to the “public charge” test that could harm immigrant communities and caregivers. Strong advocacy will be essential to protect basic needs, human dignity, and access to vital supports.

As people of faith, we remain committed to standing with our neighbors, amplifying unheard voices, and raising our voices together in hope as we move into the new year.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardDecember 29, 2025Advocacy, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, Church and SocietyComment

Share the Joy: Christmas Volunteer Opportunities with LSS-SW

LSS-SW is seeking volunteers for Christmas gift-wrapping, delivery, Shopping Guide roles, and card-making in both Tucson and the Phoenix area. All gifts and Christmas cards are due December 15, with deliveries taking place December 18–21. More than 1,500 gifts will be distributed this year, and volunteers can also support ongoing needs such as Refugee Youth Mentors, English tutoring, and homework helpers.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardDecember 8, 2025Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

Share the Joy: Christmas Volunteer Opportunities with LSS-SW

LSS-SW is seeking volunteers for Christmas gift-wrapping, delivery, Shopping Guide roles, and card-making in both Tucson and the Phoenix area. All gifts and Christmas cards are due December 15, with deliveries taking place December 18–21. More than 1,500 gifts will be distributed this year, and volunteers can also support ongoing needs such as Refugee Youth Mentors, English tutoring, and homework helpers.

Refugee Services Update: Join LSS-SW Webinar Nov. 14

Join Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest for a Refugee Services Update Webinar on Friday, November 14, at 11 a.m. Hear directly from Connie Phillips, President & CEO, and key staff about the state of refugee resettlement in Arizona and what’s ahead in 2026. Learn how congregations and individuals across our synod continue to walk alongside refugee families with compassion and hope. Register here.

Join LSS-SW for a Refugee Services Webinar — November 14 at 11 a.m.

Join Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest for a Refugee Services Update Webinar on Friday, November 14, at 11 a.m. Hear directly from Connie Phillips, President & CEO, and key staff about the state of refugee resettlement in Arizona and what’s ahead in 2026. Learn how congregations and individuals across our synod continue to walk alongside refugee families with compassion and hope. Register here.

LSS-SW Calls Us to Stand with Refugees: Speak Up for SNAP Access Today

Federal shutdown delays have stalled this year’s refugee admissions, and SNAP food assistance has been halted for both refugees and all current recipients statewide. Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest continues serving resettled families and invites you to advocate with legislators for restored SNAP funding and refugee protection. The ELCA has provided an easy tool to contact Congress—learn more and take action.

Help Students Start Strong: Support the LSS Back-to-School Drive by July 21

The annual Back-to-School Drive from Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is underway! Help students across Arizona and southern Nevada—especially refugee youth, foster youth, children with disabilities, and families in need—start the school year with the supplies they need. Donate items, host a drive, or make a financial gift by July 21. Supplies can be dropped off in Phoenix or Tucson, or ordered via the Amazon Wishlist.

Click here to learn more and view the full list of urgently needed supplies: lss-sw.org/backtoschool

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJuly 14, 2025Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

Help Students Start Strong: Support the LSS Back-to-School Drive by July 21

The annual Back-to-School Drive from Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is underway! Help students across Arizona and southern Nevada—especially refugee youth, foster youth, children with disabilities, and families in need—start the school year with the supplies they need. Donate items, host a drive, or make a financial gift by July 21. Supplies can be dropped off in Phoenix or Tucson, or ordered via the Amazon Wishlist.

Click here to learn more and view the full list of urgently needed supplies: lss-sw.org/backtoschool

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJuly 10, 2025Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

Engaged, Not Exhausted: A Lutheran Guide to Advocacy and Service

Feeling overwhelmed by the many needs in our communities? Our partners at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) share practical ways to stay engaged without exhaustion. Whether you have five minutes to make a call, ten minutes to write a letter, or a few hours to host an event, there are simple, effective ways to take action. By setting boundaries, leaning on trusted sources, and building community, we can respond with focus and faith. Click here to read more.

“An Abrupt Stop”: Refugee Services in Arizona Struggle After Funding Freeze

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) is facing a severe funding crisis following President Trump’s executive order halting refugee resettlement aid. The abrupt loss of federal funds has forced LSS-SW to lay off staff and scale back critical services for newly arrived refugees in Arizona. Despite the challenges, LSS-SW remains committed to supporting displaced families through private donations and community support. Read more about the impact and how you can help at lamaz.org.

Urgent Appeal for Refugee Support Amid Policy Shifts

The recent halt on refugee resettlement and a stop-work order have left hundreds of refugee families in Arizona without critical support. Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is responding to this crisis, but we need your help. Contact your representatives, educate your community, volunteer, or give to ensure that newly arrived refugees receive the support they need. Now is the time to stand together in faith and action. Read more to learn how you can make a difference, and visit LSS-SW’s Refugee Crisis page to act today.

Standing Strong: How You Can Support Refugees in Arizona Today

Recent cuts to humanitarian parole and the suspension of refugee resettlement threaten the safety and future of countless families. As people of faith, we are called to welcome the stranger and stand firm in our commitment to hope and hospitality. Refugees who have already arrived need our continued support—through volunteering, donations, and advocacy.

Learn how you can make a difference today and help keep the flame of hope alive in Arizona in this article from Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, reprinted on the LAMAZ.org site.

Caregivers in Northwest Maricopa: Free Training & Support Program Launching This October

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is offering free caregiver training for those caring for children under five in Northwest Maricopa County. Starting October 1, the seven-week program includes CPR certification, self-paced online courses, and weekly in-person sessions at Community of Grace Lutheran Church, 10561 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Peoria, AZ 85383. Register now to gain essential skills in injury prevention, healthy eating, and emotional literacy. Visit LSS-SW Children and Family Services and view this PDF for more details.

School Supplies needed for students in your community

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest provides services to a variety of needed community members, from children navigating the foster care system, families at risk of homelessness, to newly arrived refugees. We are able to take our support to our community a step further through the help of churches and other community members.

Our organization is in need of generous donors who wish to donate needed school supplies to our clients who receive services through us. Help your community receive school supplies so they can be successful in their upcoming school year! Visit lss-sw.org/backtoschool or view this PDF flyer for more info. Supplies are needed by 7/24/2024.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJuly 8, 2024Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

LSS-SW: “Why Voting Is Important” Webinar

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest shares their webinar on the importance of voting. LAMA also shares one of the testimonies from an LSS staff member, and you can read it here.

Join the Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest Team

The Faith and Community Engagement Manager will work as part of the Fund Development Team to advance the mission of Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) with donors, volunteers, congregations, and other partners throughout the Phoenix metro area. The ideal candidate is a natural networker who enjoys making connections between people and building community. Get more info and apply here.

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest hosts Building Foundations Luncheon

Join Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest for a day of inspiration and community at their Building Foundations Luncheon on February 29th, 2024, 11:15 am at the Hilton Double Tree - Reid Park, in Tucson. The theme is A Journey Of Faith.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2024Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

Northeast Valley Consortium and LSS-SW pack refugee welcome bags as part of “God’s Work. Our Hands." Sunday

We share an article from the Fountain Hills Times Independent featuring the churches of the Northeast Valley Consortium (Ascension, Christ the Lord, Living Water, New Covenant, and New Journey) and Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest and other partners. They helped pack over 200 welcome bags for refugees in Phoenix, offering essential items and a beacon of hope to those arriving from strife-torn regions.

LSS-SW seeks Interim volunteer coordinator

Here is an excellent chance for you to work with volunteers and help those in need. You can organize Christmas activities for the individuals we serve and make a positive impact on the lives of the most vulnerable. Visit our website lsssw.applicantpro.com/jobs/ for more information about the position. Please submit your application no later than 7/26/2023 through our website.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJuly 13, 2023Help Wanted, Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

LSS-SW offers free GED program for neighbors in need

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest Family Resource Centers are now providing the GED, ESL classes and Financial literacy programs. The programs will be 100% free for neighbors in need. The GED program will be online, ESL classes and financial literacy programs will be in person. Read more in this post or in this PDF flyer.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 15, 2023Lutheran Social Services of the SouthwestComment

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