Lutheran World Relief (LWR)

Envisions a future where all people, in every corner of the world can live full, dignified lives

Founded by Lutherans in the United States at the end of World War II, grounded in Lutheran theology and building on decades of experience, Lutheran World Relief tackles global poverty by helping people adapt to the challenges that threaten their livelihoods and well-being.

LWR works work with people based on need, regardless of race, religion or nationality and we do not evangelize.

LWR provides aid in emergencies and help families restore their lives. They partner with communities to build and grow rural economies. They break the cycle of poverty, so families and communities can thrive.

LWR’s goal is to help people build self‐sufficiency and create new community‐owned approaches to problem‐solving that will last long after our projects end.

LWR led the Nepal-India Trans-boundary Resilience project under the Water Window Challenge.

Latest news and articles

Partner Blog September 21, 2023

Advancing the Conversation Around Building a Resilient Future

Resilience — or the ability of people, households, communities, countries and systems to manage adversity and change without compromising future well-being — is becoming more relevant and better known outside of food security circles as the world struggles to cope with increased and overlapping global shocks.

News September 18, 2023

Scaling Global Resilience: New Report Highlights Increasing Momentum for Evidence-backed Solutions

The Resilience Evidence Forum (REF) 2023 Synthesis Report presents the findings and insights from the Resilience Evidence Forum.

September 8, 2023

Tharu tribe women lead their climate justice movement in India

In this story, we learn how the women of the Tharu tribe are at the forefront of climate justice movements and reclaiming their land. This is one of the five winning stories from Resilience Perspectives, a storytelling competition for young people.

News September 5, 2023

Meet the shortlisted candidates of the RAIN Challenge for Non-profits

Eight seed-level initiatives have been selected and over the next six months will work in collaboration with GRP to receive tailored mentoring and leadership training. The RAIN Challenge for non-profits is a joint effort between GRP and the Munich-Re Foundation.

Resilience Perspectives August 25, 2023

The Butterfly Effect: A Story of Resilience from a DRR Young Leaders Fellow

In this story, Manashree Newa shares her experience as a young DRR fellow in Nepal's Terai region and how the experience left a lasting impact on her and the municipality. This is one of the five winning stories from the Resilience Perspectives storytelling contest.