Providing HOPE When Alaskans Need It Most

Lutheran Social Services of Alaska is a non-profit social service agency providing aid to low-income individuals and families throughout Alaska.

Sustaining Lives,
Transforming Communities

As a partner of the United Way of Anchorage​, we gain the opportunity to join with other agencies in addressing urgent human needs throughout the state of Alaska. We are also a member of the Lutheran Services in America, one of largest health and human service organization networks in the nation. In addition, we are supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Alaska Synod (ELCA)​, the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, Northwest District of the LCMS and many caring and concerned congregations and individuals throughout the state and country.

550,000+

Pounds of Food Distributed

56,000+

Individuals Served Annually

50+

Years of Community Partnership

25%

Of Alaska's Senior Food Services

550,000+

Pounds of Food Distributed

56,000+

Individuals Served Annually

50+

Years of Community Partnership

25%

Of Alaska's Senior Food Services

25%

Of Alaska's Senior Food Services

A Leading Provider of Senior Nutrition Support

550,000+

Pounds of Food Distributed

Reaching Families Across Alaska

56,000+

Individuals Served Annually by LSSA

With Comprehensive Programmatic Support

50+

Years of Community Partnerships

Trusted Service Delivery Since 1945

How We Help

Every day, LSSA provides comprehensive services that meet immediate needs while building pathways to stability. Our unique approach brings together food assistance, transitional housing, senior programs, and emergency support - all under one roof in Anchorage.

Driver's license with photo of a woman,

Direct Assistance

Emergency vouchers for identification replacement, clothing, transportation, medications, and other barriers preventing employment or stability.

Seaplane in flight; white, red, and silver fuselage; mountain backdrop.

Specialized Programs

Alaska Stranded Rural Alaskans (ASRA) medical transportation support, disaster response coordination, and community partnership programs.

People at a food bank, selecting items from shelves stocked with canned goods and other groceries.

Food Assistance

Food assistance through pantry and mobile distribution, emergency vouchers for identification and clothing, basic needs support removing barriers to employment and stability.

Program Spotlights

Programs That Provide Hope

Our comprehensive service model ensures clients receive coordinated support addressing multiple barriers to stability and self-sufficiency.

Specialized Services

ASSOCIATION FOR STRANDED RURAL ALASKANS (ASRA)

For over 30 years, ASRA has provided emergency shelter and transportation to individuals who are stranded in medical facilities outside of their hometown due to financial hardship. As part of our ASRA program, we ask each person receiving assistance to pledge to repay the amount over a period of time (some pledge amounts as low as $10/month). To apply for ASRA, please get in touch with a medical social worker at the hospital where you are receiving treatment at or call our offices for more information. You can also download an application and ask a social worker to fax it to us at 907-272-5728.

Community Partnerships

The Listening Post

The Listening Post opens its doors for individuals to come and share their story, relieve their burdens through talk, and find a moment of peace. Now located in various locations around Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley, this 100% volunteer-operated organization has served the community since 2008. Trained volunteers practice the sacred art of listening without judging, advising, or counseling—simply offering presence and acceptance. Their commitment to compassionate listening aligns with LSSA's mission to provide holistic support for Alaskans in need.

Alaska's Safety Net Needs You Today

With increased demand and funding challenges, LSSA faces an unprecedented need for community support. Your gift today directly transforms lives - providing emergency food, preventing senior isolation, and offering hope when Alaskans need it most.

Get Involved

Let us know who you would like to help by clicking the link below

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Volunteer

Our food pantry is always in need of volunteers to help sort and distribute food on Tuesday through Friday. LSSA also hosts special community events like Thanksgiving Blessing, HUGSS and Coats for Kids, and Neighborhood Gift.

Group of people smiling, standing indoors near boxes. Some hold cups, wearing casual clothes.

Join A Committee

LSSA hosts various events and works on many projects that require teams of dedicated volunteers. Our biggest need is always on our fundraising committee, which plans our annual Harvest of Hope Auction.

Two smiling children with backpacks, one blond and one with dark hair.

Spread The Word

LSSA works to address poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity affecting thousands of Alaskans annually. We welcome opportunities to present at businesses, partner with congregations, and organize community food drives.

Stay Informed!

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates on LSSA programs, inspiring stories of hope and transformation, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support Alaskans in need.