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Every year, Lutheran Social Service/National Capital Area welcomes hundreds of refugees from around the world to the U.S., averaging about 30 families a month. From the moment a new family arrives at the airport, Lutheran Social Service staff is at the gate waiting to provide guidance, living arrangements and encouragement. While each family’s story is different, their collective dreams are the same: to rebuild their lives in America and regain a sense of security after years of strife. LSS/NCA supports their clients during this transition by mobilizing community partners and offering a range of services to newcomers. In January, Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Bethesda helped them stock the kitchens for their new homes. The kitchen items are a part of the 250 items it takes to stock an apartment for a family. Also, at this time of year, they especially need clean blankets to keep all our newly arriving refugees warm. To donate to support the refugee families, visit https://lssnca.org/lss/wwd_refugee. To learn more about the service activities, visit Emmanuel Lutheran Church at the corner of Seven Locks Road and Bradley Boulevard.