Trump’s war on nonprofits is a direct threat to our communities
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Last week brought alarming news: President Trump’s administration has paused the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) – the federal government’s annual fundraising drive that has contributed billions of dollars to charities worldwide for over 60 years. The CFC allows federal employees, retirees, and military personnel to donate to thousands of vetted nonprofit organizations through payroll deductions or one-time contributions.
The sudden pause has left organizations reeling. Rosie Allen-Herring, president and CEO of United Way of the National Capital Area (NCA), serving families across the DMV area, put it plainly: “The thought of it ceasing could be extremely detrimental, where families will not have access to services that are so greatly needed.” Without the CFC, budgets shrink and communities suffer.”
This is not an isolated decision. It is part of a broader campaign to weaken nonprofits. Already this year, we’ve seen:
● Nearly $8 billion in funding cuts to U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) programs, hollowing out development work that communities at home and abroad depend on.
● Starvation of agencies like AmeriCorps, blocking food aid deliveries, and attempts to install political operatives inside groups like NeighborWorks and the Vera Institute.
● A “pocket rescission” targeting $4.9 billion in foreign aid (an unlawful attempt to cancel funding Congress already approved).
Here in Montgomery County, there are many nonprofits working to build a stronger community, by addressing issues such as food insecurity, access to healthcare, affordable housing, employment skills training and much, much more. When the administration threatens the resources, these organizations rely on, it undermines the very fabric of our communities.
Courtney Hall, CEO at Interfaith Works, shared his deep concern that CFC funding has been paused indefinitely.
“This will be devastating for us and for many other nonprofits in Montgomery County,” Hall said. “Over the past 25 years, Interfaith Works has received nearly $400,000 in support through the CFC. This program offers a vital opportunity for donors to support our mission as we serve neighbors experiencing poverty.”
This isn’t just about budgets. It's about our values. Do we stand with nonprofits that lift up families and strengthen communities, or do we allow political agendas to tear them down?
As your Delegate, I will keep fighting for the nonprofits that sustain Maryland families and for a government that prioritizes people over political agendas.
Join my campaign. Share your stories and thoughts with me at tazeen@tazeenformaryland.com.
With heart and purpose,
Tazeen Ahmad
Candidate for Delegate
Leading with Heart, Delivering with Purpose