The humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) is urging the U.S. government to restore funding for critical humanitarian programs that were cut due to recent executive orders.
World Relief, a key humanitarian organization under the NAE, has expressed concerns over the impact of these funding cuts on vulnerable communities in crisis-affected regions such as Sudan, Haiti, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The organization had previously relied on grants from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to support its relief efforts but was forced to halt several operations following the funding reductions.
Despite some financial support from churches, private donors, and other organizations, World Relief emphasizes that the sudden loss of government-backed grants has significantly hindered its ability to provide aid. In a statement, the organization called on the U.S. government to “follow through on other past grant commitments and to resume continued funding for lifesaving humanitarian programs.”
Although the situation has posed challenges, World Relief recently received reimbursement for work conducted in Sudan, which it described as “an answer to many prayers.”
“We are thankful, and hopeful that additional already-committed funds will be forthcoming as well,” said Lanre Williams-Ayedun, Senior Vice President for International Programs at World Relief.
Myal Greene, President and CEO of World Relief, further emphasized the broader impact of the funding cuts, stating that restoring aid would not only serve American interests but also align with biblical principles. He reiterated the organization’s commitment to advocating for the restoration of these programs, as well as the U.S. refugee resettlement program.
The call for reinstating foreign aid funding is particularly significant given the strong evangelical support base within the U.S. political landscape. Evangelicals have traditionally backed policies aligned with their faith, including pro-life measures, but organizations like World Relief are now highlighting the need for a compassionate approach to global humanitarian efforts.
