MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley issued the following statement regarding the news that the Trump administration is eliminating federal funding for AmeriCorps programs in Wisconsin, including at the Milwaukee County Courthouse, that will impact services for residents and families, as reported this morning by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
“AmeriCorps is critical in fostering the next generation of leaders throughout Milwaukee County. I know this is true because AmeriCorps Public Allies was where I learned the foundation of community organizing and found my calling as a public servant. Simply put, we need AmeriCorps to build up stronger, healthier communities that Milwaukee County residents deserve. However, it’s clear the Trump administration and DOGE disagree. The news that AmeriCorps programs across the nation are now being terminated is not just a policy decision. It’s a deeply personal attack, leaving many without access to the services and support they rely on.
“Federal funding cuts toward AmeriCorps programs have real and immediate consequences, directly impacting kids, families, and neighborhoods across Wisconsin. Throughout our community, this unnecessary action will harm our most vulnerable: children experiencing homelessness, students in need of school support, people who are working to overcome addiction and substance use disorder, and folks in public service who are striving to make our communities better.
“Here at the Milwaukee County Courthouse, AmeriCorps members are instrumental in helping people navigate a complex legal system, making sure they arrive on time, fully prepared for their court hearings. Because of these detrimental cuts, the Milwaukee Justice Center will now struggle to provide critical information and assistance to members of the public accessing local services, further increasing court backlogs, decreasing governmental efficiency, and driving up costs for everyone.
“Bottom line: We need to fight for AmeriCorps—because when we invest in services, we invest in people and the future of Milwaukee County. These funding cuts do nothing to support anyone in our community. In fact, they are making matters worse in Wisconsin and across the country.”
