Dear Neighbor,
Earlier this week, the Trump Administration issued a memo ordering a wide-ranging pause on federal funding. In an outrageous and illegal move, the Administration blocked critical investments that Congress provided to support working families, national security, public safety, and economic growth.
This is a direct assault on the Constitution and the American people.
Project 2025 is no longer a policy document. It is Trump’s playbook for his first weeks in office. The freeze on vital federal funding that directly impacts communities across the country was unprecedented. While the Administration rescinded the memo, the fear and confusion is still here. Many in our district rely on affordable housing programs, educational resources, and small business support to survive. They will bear the brunt of these outrageous decisions.
I have heard from countless constituents, nonprofit organizations, and community partners who felt the impacts of the freeze and who know that even a brief pause in funding can have catastrophic consequences:
"The abruptness of this funding freeze hasn’t just left nonprofits like Good Shepherd Housing in financial limbo – it has created chaos for the entire system. Rapid and sometimes contrary messages from the White House make it impossible for local or state officials to offer clear guidance on pass-through funding; without that we are forced to make urgent decisions about whether we can continue providing critical services. Families in need can’t wait for bureaucracy to catch up."
Genee Hayes, Executive Director, Good Shepherd Housing
“The recent government actions have created uncertainty and concern within our health centers. If a funding pause were to occur, it would have far-reaching impacts on our operations, patients, and staff. A funding freeze would result in a 60% reduction in our funding, which would force us to evaluate all aspects of our operations. This would result in the elimination of essential healthcare services. We would also be forced to make reductions to our workforce, potentially laying off 70% of our staff, including medical providers, dentists, and other medical professionals. The looming possibility of layoffs is already creating distress among our dedicated staff, affecting morale, productivity, and their own mental well-being.”
Dr. Tonya Adkins, CEO, HealthWorks for Northern Virginia
"Every young person, no matter their circumstances, deserves a safe place to sleep and the opportunity to grow and thrive. Without vital federal funding, programs like ours will be unable to provide the support that keeps youth from falling into the most dangerous situations. Abruptly halting federal aid, even temporarily, could have devastating consequences for organizations like Second Story and the young people we serve."
Jade Leedham, CEO, Second Story
Another funding freeze will have devastating effects.These cuts are not just numbers. They impact real people. I am standing with my colleagues to fight back against this and any future attempt to freeze federal funds.
We will not allow an unlawful power grab that steals taxpayer dollars from the people who need them most.
Together, we will stand up and fight for the future of our communities. If you or your organization have been directly affected by this funding freeze, please reach out to my office at 703-256-3071.
