The foreign aid freeze and ongoing US government review of foreign aid funding has sent shockwaves through communities worldwide.

This pause creates uncertainty for critical programs that provide essential support to millions of vulnerable people in developing countries.

While the review aims to reassess the distribution of aid, the immediate impact on those reliant on these funds is alarming. This is particularly true as it pertains to the anti-trafficking movement and fighting modern slavery.

According to a memo obtained by The Washington Post, the White House budget office ordered a pause on all grants and loans disbursed by the federal government.

This directive, issued as part of a broader effort to ensure programs align with recent executive orders, has created widespread confusion.

These orders aim to restrict federal spending on diversity, equity, inclusion initiatives, and clean energy programs, among other measures.

Donald Kettl, professor emeritus and former dean of the University of Maryland School of Public Policy, described the resulting uncertainty as immense.

“In two pages, we’ve got what amounts to 60 years of tradition and policies that are thrown up in the air,” said Kettl. “For those suffering most, the uncertainty will be immense.”

Foreign aid freeze: A crisis in the making

Foreign aid has long served as a lifeline, funding initiatives that combat poverty, improve education, bolster healthcare, and tackle human trafficking.

According to NPR, the pause affects billions of dollars in funding administered through agencies such as USAID. They partner with local organizations to implement impactful, on-the-ground solutions.

Many of these organizations, now left in limbo, are scrambling to sustain essential services.

The stakes are dire. Last year alone, USAID’s initiatives reached over 100 million people globally. This provided life-saving support in areas such as food security, public health, and education.

Without intervention, the foreign aid freeze means thousands of projects risk being scaled back or shut down entirely. This leaves countless individuals without the aid they desperately need.

The role of Not For Sale and its partners

Not For Sale, a global nonprofit, has always taken a unique approach to combating crises like this.

Not For Sale ensures its operations are not dependent on government funding. This is achieved by creating sustainable enterprises to fund their charitable work, relying on private donations.

While no model is perfect, Not For Sale’s approach allows the organization to remain flexible and step in during moments of crisis.

For years, Not For Sale has delivered life-changing support to survivors and at-risk people worldwide. Now under threat, is Not For Sale’s project in Vietnam, which has helped transform the lives of thousands of vulnerable individuals.

In 2024 alone, Not For Sale reached over 40,000 people, providing housing, education, and critical resources. This addressed urgent issues like human trafficking, offering comprehensive care and empowering survivors to rebuild their lives.

Vietnam’s fight against trafficking

“Our work in Vietnam Illustrates the profound impact of well-supported initiatives. Focused on rescuing trafficking victims and providing wraparound care, we offer safe accommodation and equip individuals with the tools to start anew,” explains Mark Wexler, co-founder, Not For Sale.

Now, with the US foreign aid freeze, this work is under threat. Michael Brosowski, director of Not For Sale Vietnam, underscores the urgency of the situation:

“The US Government’s freeze on foreign aid, including funding for anti-trafficking work in Vietnam, jeopardizes our ability to reach thousands of people who need protection and support.

“We need to raise $100,000 over the next three months to ensure uninterrupted assistance for children, families, and communities while preparing for the future.”

The cost of inaction

If aid remains paused or permanently withdrawn, the long-term consequences will be catastrophic. Vulnerable communities will be left without access to food, shelter, and safety.

Human trafficking victims will remain trapped without the resources to escape or rebuild. Organizations that have relied on consistent funding for decades will likely face closures, leaving gaping holes in support systems.

How you can help against the threat of a foreign aid freeze

To bridge the gap created by the treat of America’s foreign aid freeze, Not For Sale is launching a campaign to raise $100,000. 100% of the funds raised will go to supporting their project work in Vietnam, directly supporting at-risk communities, safeguarding lives and futures during this uncertain time.

• Together, we can ensure that vulnerable populations receive the support they need. Join us in standing up for those who need it most.