Trump’s unprecedented freeze throws essential programs into chaos and threatens funding for school lunches, home heating assistance, and even Meals on Wheels
MADISON, Wis. – Last night’s unprecedented announcement from President Trump that federal grants and loans will be frozen this afternoon threatens funding for key programs that support Wisconsinites. In response, Opportunity Wisconsin Program Director Meghan Roh released the following statement calling on Wisconsin’s congressional delegation to demand the White House stop this plan and support our communities:
“President Trump’s announcement is going to hurt Wisconsin communities and families. Instead of being a partner for Wisconsinites and successful programs that help families succeed, Trump’s announcement puts critical services at risk and is creating chaos that hurts millions of Americans. This funding supports school lunch programs, preschool, Meals on Wheels, and even programs for home heating assistance and homeless veterans. If Trump follows through with his plan, he’s literally leaving Americans out in the cold. Congress has the power to make spending decisions, and it’s time for Republicans in Congress—including Congressmen Derrick Van Orden and Bryan Steil—to tell Wisconsinites where they stand on Trump’s plan. They should oppose this move to rip essential funding from our communities, stand up for their constituents, and publicly call on the President to roll back this proposal before more damage is done.”
Background on Programs Impacted By Trump’s Freeze:
- According to Roll Call, “as written the pause could affect a big swath of programs that aid lower-income households, including: Medicaid; school breakfast and lunch programs; Section 8 rental assistance; Title I education grants; Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; state grants for child care; Head Start; and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children.”
- Meals on Wheels’ spokesperson said, “the uncertainty right now is creating chaos for local Meals on Wheels providers not knowing whether they should be serving meals today. Which unfortunately means seniors will panic not knowing where their next meals will come from.”
- Some non-profit programs to support homeless veterans are 100% funded by federal grants and could be forced to stop programming.
- HuffPost: Trump Administration Payment Freeze May Delay Money For Critical Preschool Program