Despite receiving orders to halt operations, some organizations have chosen to continue their work in Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. A spokesperson for Medical Teams International explained that as a Christian organization, they prioritize the worth and dignity of all people, both those they serve and their staff. While a portion of their program in Uganda has been granted a waiver to continue, they understand that they may not be reimbursed for other projects.
Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, noted that life-saving emergency supplies are exempt from the stop order, but the details of the waiver process remain unclear. His organization, which receives minimal funding from USAID, is committed to sustaining projects in Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ethiopia.
Some organizations have allies within the Trump Administration and the State Department, utilizing back channels to seek clarity on the future of USAID funding. Meanwhile, there are calls for President Trump to reconsider the aid freeze, particularly from evangelical Christians who support refugee resettlement.
Although a significant portion of white evangelicals voted for Trump, recent research indicates that most evangelical Americans believe the U.S. has a moral obligation to welcome refugees. In response to the government’s funding pause, World Relief has raised $3 million from small donors to support their programs. However, this may not be enough to cover essential expenses such as rent for legal refugees invited by the U.S. government.
For Christian aid workers impacted by the USAID suspension, the situation represents a deep disappointment and a departure from their sense of calling. Many feel a profound betrayal as they strive to serve others in need. Anne Linn, who has dedicated her career to combating malaria in Africa, expressed her commitment to alleviating suffering but was laid off when her contract with the President’s Malaria Initiative was terminated.
Despite some Americans’ desire for malaria-stricken countries to become self-sufficient in healthcare, Linn emphasizes that these nations also aspire for independence.
A substantial portion of their GDP is dedicated to debt servicing. They require a runway to aid their economic recovery, as this cannot be achieved overnight. Meanwhile, in certain countries where she has carried out her work, the rainy season is approaching, bringing along mosquitoes. Unfortunately, the much-needed bed nets are stranded in a warehouse due to a halt in deliveries by the contracted personnel. This situation raises concerns for the safety of pregnant mothers and children under the age of 5, who are at risk of malaria, a potentially fatal disease. “How can anyone, after reading the teachings of Jesus Christ, consider this acceptable?” she questions. “It is truly perplexing to me. If we claim to uphold pro-life values, we cannot turn a blind eye to such injustices.” For further inquiries, please contact us at letters@time.com.
