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Our History

Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri was founded in 1868, in the aftermath of the Civil War, with a singular mission: to care for the young son of a wounded Union soldier. Nearly a century later, what began as an orphanage was transformed to better address the evolving needs of society. Proceeds from the sale of the orphanage were used to establish an endowment, which has played a vital role in sustaining and strengthening the organization for generations.

Throughout its long history, LFCS has continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of children and families in our communities. Today, LFCS is a statewide social services agency that provides a wide range of programs, including Adoption, Pregnancy Support, Parenting Education, Counseling, Foster Care, and Child Development services.

1868

LFCS originated as the Lutheran Orphans’ Home, a log cabin built in Des Peres, Missouri, by Rev. Johann F. Buenger, to serve as a home for 40 children.

1893

A new building (with capacity for 150 children) is dedicated, replacing earlier buildings. Additional amenities include a three-acre vegetable garden, dairy farm, hogs, chickens, smoke house, bake house, and a school.

1935

Fire completely destroys the Lutheran Orphans’ Home, but no one is hurt. Children and staff are housed in the German Protestant Orphans’ Home on St. Charles Rock Road while the facility is rebuilt with generous contributions from the Lutheran community in St. Louis.

1936

Construction is completed on the fourth Orphans’ Home for a total cost of $155,000.

1956

The Lutheran Orphans’ Home is merged with the Lutheran Children’s Friend Society of Missouri, a Licensed Child Placing Agency. The new name is Lutheran Children’s Services.

1966

The Board of Directors votes to close the Children’s Home and the Corporate delegate body approves the decision. A new office opens to house the combined staff at 634 North Grand in St. Louis.

1968

The agency is renamed Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri, with three service departments: Community and Parish Services, Child Welfare, and Counseling.

1970

LFCS takes over Hilltop Day Care Center in Wellston (which later becomes Hilltop Child and Family Development Center).

1983

The first LFCS Helping Hands Dinner and Auction is held, netting $76,000.

1998

A Statewide Governing Board is proposed, consisting of representatives from LFCS Board, Day Care Board, the LFCS Foundation, and Regional Advisory Boards.

1998

LFCS establishes the LFCS Foundation, to provide financial support for our mission of helping children and families overcome challenges today so they can build a better tomorrow.