Background: On Good Friday, President Trump released his budget request for FY2027 with 30% cut in the federal foreign affairs budget. This includes sharp cuts to global health and humanitarian assistance, and the elimination of the Food for Peace initiative, all while increasing defense spending by 42% to $1.5 trillion. 

Last year, the Trump administration decimated U.S. foreign assistance and rescinded billions in funding already appropriated for humanitarian needs, global stability, and peacebuilding. These drastic cuts have already exacerbated the growing number of people forcefully displaced and increased levels of trauma, famine, and food insecurity. The effects of a deep decrease in vital services both within the U.S. and globally will likely lead to millions of otherwise preventable deaths and will increase the potential for violent conflict.

Urge Congress to support poverty-focused development assistance that reflects a compassionate and Christ-centered generosity.

God calls us to unconditional compassionate generosity (Isaiah 58:7). Jesus repeatedly reminded his followers of their responsibility toward one another, especially in responding to basic needs (Matthew 25:31-45). We are invited to courageously love others in the way God loves us. 

Take action: Ask Congress to pass a moral FY2027 budget

Photo above: Elizabeth Mwengea, a member of the Angasa Ndovoini Village Savings and Loan Association in Makueni County, proudly shows land once degraded and now restored through the group’s conservation practices. MCC/Fairpicture photo/Nyokabi Kahura