First Lutheran

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Outreach: Beyond our Selves and our Walls

Outreach Ministries at First Lutheran Church put faith into action through dedicated, member-driven teams. Guided by our commitment to be "in the city, for the city," we partner with local, national and even global partners to feed neighbors, support housing security, and share the unconditional love of God.

About Us

At First Lutheran Church, we believe faith is meant to be lived out not behind closed doors, but directly in the heart of our city and areas of need around the world. You don't need a specific background, special skills, or a perfect life to make a real difference. Our Outreach Ministries are designed so anyone can step in, serve alongside others, and put God’s grace into action. Coordinated through two focused teams—Hunger, Housing & Hope, and Global Outreach—our congregation acts as a reliable, compassionate partner to those facing life's toughest challenges.
 

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Spreading the Gospel Locally and Globally

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
U.S.D.A. Nondiscrimination Statement

Hunger & Hope Ministries

The Saturday Evening Meal Program feeds a free meal to 75 – 150 people every Saturday night, no questions asked.  Teams of volunteers take turns each week to prepare and serve the meal.     Learn More 

 

The Hunger & Hope Team also supports food drives each year, and partners with HACAP to pack and trasnport emergency meals for students and families. 

 

Finally, we provide hope to people in times of need. We have collected personal care items for our unhoused neighbors, and every year supply Christmas Gifts to children living in Four Oaks Residential facilities. 

Housing Ministries

The First Lutheran Housing Team works closely with our local homeless shelters such as Willis Dady Homeless Services and the winter Emergency Overflow shelter.

 

We also regularly support and participate in homebuilding and home maintenance programs through local mission partners Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity and Matthew 25. 

Local Ministry Partners: 

Third Avenue Churches

Wellington Heights Community Church

Helping Hands

His Hands Free Medical Clinic

Matthew 25
Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity

Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP)
MedQuarter

Global Partners in Tanzania, Liberia, and More

Liberian Newborn Support
Our faith reaches far beyond our city through vital international partnerships that extend health, dignity, and grace to global neighbors. The Newborn Kit Ministry assembles and ships essential supplies—including cloth diapers, onesies, towels, and soap—to hospital maternity wards in Liberia, providing crucial support and care for new mothers and infants.

 

Tanzania Partner Congregations
Our Global Outreach team also maintains a deep, collaborative relationship with our ELCA companion congregation in Samé, Tanzania, supporting local ministry, infrastructure development, and shared faith projects that reflect our commitment to walking alongside Christians around the world.

 

Lutheran World Relief
No matter where in the world disaster strikes, we also provide monetary support and over a hundred quilts every year from our Comfort Makers Ministry to the Lutheran World Relief and Lutheran Disaster Response coalitions.

Get Connected

Put your faith in action serving with our team and partners. Fill out the quick contact form and let us know how you are interested in serving.
 

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Live out Your Faith in Action

Provide the Love of God to the World Around Us.