Two nonprofits in the Puget Sound region, Lutheran Community Services Northwest (LCSNW) and Compass Housing Alliance, have merged as of Jan. 1, 2026. Founded over a century ago, both organizations aim to enhance their services and impact by combining resources. They currently serve more than 75,000 clients and employ nearly 1,000 staff members across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

The merger was initiated after discussions began in 2019, focusing on the benefits of collaboration. Leaders from both organizations recognized the merger as a win for their clients, driven by the urgent need for housing and social services in the community. Compass will now operate as the Housing Division of LCSNW, combining its housing expertise with LCSNW’s human services.

Compass contributes over 750 affordable housing units and more than 200 shelter beds, enhancing LCSNW’s existing services in behavioral health, family wellness, immigrant and refugee services, aging and independent living, and community support. The merger aims to create a more integrated approach to addressing housing insecurity and other community challenges in the Pacific Northwest.