As we prepare for Christmas and the new year, we are reminded of our longstanding commitment to stepping into the gap—showing up in community with innovative, mission-driven solutions that advance health and opportunity for all, especially for those who rely on us most. In this edition we share the latest issue brief and learnings from our demonstration sites, highlighting how Lutheran Services in America members across the country are building healthcare partnerships to strengthen their programs and presence in community. Thank you for your engagement and support this year. We look forward to continuing this work together in 2026.

— Alesia Frerichs, President & CEO

LEADING TOGETHER

Strengthening Community Health Through Partnership

A new issue brief and three case studies explore how Lutheran social ministries collaborate with health partners to leverage innovation, strengthen community-based services, and inform policy at the local, state, and federal levels.

Download issue brief and case studies featuring Genacross Lutheran Services, Aurora Family Services, and Family Health Centers at NYU Langone

YOUR NETWORK AT WORK

Designing What Works—Alongside Health Care Partners

Our Results Innovation Lab’s focus on outcomes and leadership development is now directly shaping how we design and support local demonstration sites alongside health care.

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Bishop Curry Visits Lutheran Services in America

We were honored to host Bishop Yehiel Curry, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, at our offices on Capitol Hill.

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Forbes Recognizes Lutheran Services in America as a Top Charity

Forbes named Lutheran Services in America on its latest annual list of America’s top 100 charities. With more than $28 billion in revenue, our network is consistently placed amongst the nation’s leading charitable organizations.

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VIEW FROM THE HILL

CMS Releases Initial Guidance on Medicaid Work Requirements

CMS issued preliminary guidance to states to inform the implementation of new work reporting requirements for Medicaid, focusing on four key areas as well as new pieces of operational direction.

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Road to the Midterms

Key toss-ups continue to take shape as various states seek to redraw maps ahead of the 2026 midterms. Republican redistricting could yield a net gain of four to five House seats. Alternatively, Democrats could net two to four seats.

Learn more and find out what you can do

Stay current on our public policy efforts by subscribing to our advocacy alerts.

EVENTS

Capitol Conversations: Jan. 15 (Virtual) — Register (Capitol Conversations is held on the third Thursday of each month.)

Disability Network Winter Meeting: Feb. 4–6 (Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.) — Register

View all events

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