The abrupt reversal of refugee policies under the Trump administration has thrust refugee philanthropy into turmoil. Federal funding suspensions and foreign aid restrictions have triggered widespread staff cuts, forcing nonprofits to overhaul resettlement programs despite dwindling resources.
The State Department’s stop-work order has had a sweeping impact across our sector, leaving many employees furloughed or without a job altogether,said Community Sponsorship Hub Executive Director Annie Nolte-Henning. Key organizations facing drastic changes include:
- Community Sponsorship Hub (significant layoffs)
- Church World Services (50%+ furloughs)
- International Rescue Committee (global reduction of thousands)
While Biden-era initiatives like the Welcome Corps initially boosted participation, recent policy shifts have crippled progress. Welcome.US CEO Nazanin Ash urged sponsors to expedite applications ahead of potential bureaucratic delays. Philanthropist Ed Shapiro’s November campaign to offset sponsor costs secured 90 new group applications, but he admits solutions are temporary.
We’re funding dozens of local offices facing service reductions,Shapiro noted. This is critically important but short-term.His foundation continues global advocacy in Canada, Germany, and Japan as U.S. refugee resettlement hits a crossroads.
The sector now awaits clarity from Washington’s 90-day policy review. With nonprofits stretched thin and sponsors scrambling, the future of U.S. refugee philanthropy hinges on sustained funding and stable leadership.