Blog
LFCS Historical Highlight: Regional Expansion
For the first 100 years of our existence, LFCS experienced a mix of struggles and successes. From multiple fires demolishing our buildings to adding multiple services to support families, it was an unforgettable journey. In fact, it wasn’t until 1968 (exactly 100 years since Rev. Buenger made that initial promise) that we took on the name Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri. This name change was important because it marked the beginning of our next big endeavor: providing our life-changing services throughout the state of Missouri.
Prior to 1968, LFCS only provides services for those in the St. Louis area. It was during this name change that our agency expanded our care for children and families across this great state. After five years of planning, fund-raising, and partnering, LFCS opened its first satellite office in Cape Girardeau in 1973. This September makes the 50th anniversary of providing parenting services & parenting education, youth prevention, and counseling services for Southeast Missouri. Since its opening, LFCS has become a pillar of the community in Cape Girardeau. We have had unwavering support from the Lutheran churches, community leaders, and clients who have experienced sustainable change in their lives.
Since the opening of the Southeast Missouri office in 1973, LFCS has been on a mission to truly be a statewide agency. After seeing the resounding success of our services in Cape, we began our 50-year journey to provide our services in every geographical area across the state. Thanks to your faithful support, we have been able to open offices in Columbia (1995), Springfield (1998), Franklin County (2010), Joplin (2011), St. Charles County (2012) and Kansas City (2023). We are proud to support every area of Missouri with services that save lives, strengthen families and enrich communities.
Our ability to expand is a direct reflection of the support we received from these communities. Lutheran churches, local advocacy & fundraisers, partnerships and individual donors worked together to address the issues plaguing their communities. Their dedication, hard work and generosity are the reason why LFCS is able to care for children and families throughout Missouri. On behalf of Lutheran Family and Children’s Service, thank you for allowing us the privilege to serve within your community!