Outreach & Community Service
“Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” ~Matthew 25:40
We believe that discipleship under Jesus Christ calls us to extend Christian compassion and helpfulness to the ill, the aged, the orphaned, the underprivileged, the imprisoned and all in need of aid in body or soul. Luther Memorial has a longstanding tradition of mission and community service in the New River Valley. Our faith community strives to live out our commitment to Christ through participation in many programs that benefit God’s people locally, and around the globe. Below is a sample of some of our community outreach partnerships.
Little Hokie Hangout Preschool Video
Recently, the Virginia Tech Daily News featured a video profile of The Little Hokie Hangout.
We are blessed to host this vital ministry to the families of graduate students. Take a moment to see how this program makes a dramatic difference in the lives of the children, staff and families who participate in this program. We give thanks for their presence in our shared ministry.
Pasta with a Purpose
Pasta with a Purpose is an invitation to Virginia Synod congregations to respond to the need to provide additional food to children during the summer months. Please bring pasta-related food items to church by July 12th. We will weigh and share the total contribution (in pounds) with other congregations in the Synod.
Luther Memorial is partnering with New Mt. Zion Lutheran Church and Shiloh Lutheran Church to collect donations. We already have a good start towards our goal of 250 cans with 75 cans and $100 for purchasing more.
The Virginia Synod will celebrate the three highest donors (pounds donated per church average worship attender) with a $250 grant to their local food pantry.
New Year, New Social Ministry Funding
In 2026, Social Ministry will be focusing on four special appeal projects. There will be one appeal each quarter. They are Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry, Micah’s Closet, To Our House, and the Christmas Project for Valley Interfaith Childcare Center.
To facilitate contributions, we are placing green, self-sealing envelopes near the offering basket. Checks or money can be put in an envelope, sealed and you can check on the label which appeal your contribution is funding. While we are emphasizing a project each quarter, you may contribute at any time during the year.
- Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
- Micah's Closet
- To Our House
- Christmas Outreach
Outreach Focus for Third Quarter 2026
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
The mission of To Our House is to provide winter shelter for homeless adults in the New River Valley and connect them with resources that lead to employment, housing, and personal economic sustainability. Many individuals facing homelessness in our area are experiencing long-term unemployment, awaiting approval for assistance programs,
or seeking disability determination. Some have previously lived in the woods, caves, culverts, vehicles, or makeshift shelters.
Although it’s still warm, we’re preparing to support To Our House this winter. During July, August, and September, Luther Memorial will collect donations to provide two weeks’ worth of restaurant gift cards (e.g., Wendy’s, Subway, McDonald’s) for lunches. These cards offer both a warm meal and a place to stay out of the cold. Our goal is
$3,000.
In addition, Luther Memorial will supply meals for one week; details and signups will be shared later.
Envelopes are available—please mark your contribution “To Our
House.” to be counted.
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
The Interfaith Food Pantry is a joint ministry of over twenty-five churches in Blacksburg of varying denominations. The Interfaith Food Pantry relies on cash and food from churches, individuals and other organizations, and serves qualified residents of Blacksburg and McCoy. Find out how you can make a donation or volunteer by visiting their Facebook page.
Lutheran Disaster Response
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
Lutheran Disaster Response shares God's hope, healing and renewal with people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. When the dust settles and the headlines change, we stay to provide ongoing assistance to those in need. Click here to find out about current programs.
NRV Cares
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
NRV CARES (New River Valley Child Advocacy, Resources, Education, and Services) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to protecting children and strengthening families.
NRV CARES strives to improve the lives of the smallest and most defenseless members of our society, while helping to support an environment where families can thrive. Contact NRV Cares for more information.
Von Bora House
In partnership with New River Community Action (NRCA), Luther Memorial offers the Von Bora House, located on the church campus, to eligible families identified by NRCA who are in need of housing. These families may live at the house rent-free until they can get back on their feet; NRCA pays all utility bills, and Luther Memorial maintains the home and provides furnishings. In addition, the church quilting group gives every family a quilt, and children are provided with books.
Valley Interfaith Child Care Center
Valley Interfaith Child Care Center
Valley Interfaith Child Care (VICCC) was organized in 2004 to address the needs of
low-income working parents with infant and toddler children, who had few or no choices
for good, affordable places to leave their children while they worked. VICCC now provides high-quality, affordable, fully-state-licensed care to the children of income-eligible working families of the Valley, offering
a nurturing environment for children from
low-income families to learn and grow.
Change for Change
Valley Interfaith Child Care Center
Each week, members and guests at Luther Memorial worship services may drop spare change into a special box on leaving the sanctuary. These funds are given to local charity organizations to support their work.
You may mail your contribution, marked “Change for Change” to Luther Memorial, 600 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060.
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance Program (MCEAP) is a 100% volunteer-run organization providing food, clothing, household items and financial assistance to Montgomery County low-income, unemployed, elderly or handicapped individuals and families. MCEAP strongly believes in providing a hand up instead of a handout. Please contact MCEAP for information on how to donate or volunteer.
Quilts
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance
Quilters meet periodically to create quilts
that support persons in need, including victims of flood, fire or other disasters. We also donate quilts to residents of the von Bora House, owned by Luther Memorial and operated by New River Community Action organization, a service that provides shelter for persons experiencing homelessness.