Following the announcement of the suspension of U.S. foreign aid spending on Friday January 24th, Nate Radomski, Executive Director of American Jesuits International, sent the following message to our community of solidarity. His letter reminds us of Jesus’ call to serve those most in need and asks supporters to provide emergency aid for Jesuit programs which have been impacted by these policy decisions.
Last Friday, the U.S. government announced an immediate suspension of foreign aid spending. This pause will disrupt critical programs in communities across the globe, including those led by our Jesuit partners. For at least 90 days, essential services like education, healthcare, and livelihood support will be at risk.
As we face this unprecedented suspension of foreign aid, I am reminded of Jesus’ call to serve those most in need and the promise that our acts of generosity will return in abundance:
‘Give, and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.’ – Luke 6:38
I am also reminded of the United States’ long tradition of solidarity with the world’s poor. For over six decades, U.S. foreign aid has lifted millions out of poverty, expanded access to education, and saved countless lives through innovative health programs.
Our commitment as a Jesuit institution to “cura personalis”—care for the whole person—has been repeatedly supported through programs sponsored by the U.S. State Department, allowing us to provide access to education and livelihoods to thousands of vulnerable individuals.
These cuts aren’t just numbers—they represent lives in limbo: children missing school, families losing income, and communities without access to vital care. This is the reality our partners are facing right now, and they need our support more than ever.
We are working with network partners to advocate for the restoration of the international affairs budget. In the interim, though, we need your support. Please consider supporting our efforts in two ways:
- Donate: Your support will provide immediate assistance to those whose lives are being upended by the suspension of foreign aid.
- Take Action: Send an email to the Department of State today, urging the restoration of funding for vital international programs.
Thank you for your continued support and prayers. In these difficult times, your partnership is more crucial than ever. Together, we can respond to Christ’s call to care or the least among us and ensure our Jesuit partner’s work remains unaffected.