Womans holds basket of food.
Through a Catholic Relief Services program in Benin, funded by U.S. international assistance, Aïssé joined a lending and savings group and received training that helped her expand her soy cheese business and earn enough income to provide for her family.

Advocate now to let lawmakers know you care about helping our global family members experiencing poverty, conflict, hunger and the effects of climate change.

As people of faith, we are called to uphold human dignity and build a more peaceful and just world. U.S. international aid provides lifesaving food assistance in emergencies and supports long-term development programs that help communities build resilience for the future. 

As the Dec. 20 extended deadline for federal appropriations draws near, your voice is needed more than ever to protect lifesaving international assistance!

The House has proposed steep cuts to many of the humanitarian and development accounts that are critical for addressing global poverty. While the Senate has largely proposed to maintain foreign assistance, until Congress finalizes fiscal year 2025 appropriations, it is essential that CRS supporters continue to advocate on this critical funding. 

Email your U.S. members of Congress and tell them to ensure the highest funding levels possible for international poverty-reducing humanitarian and development assistance in the fiscal year 2025 federal budget. 

By lifting your voice today, you help: 

•    Families and children access emergency food aid during a crisis.
•    Smallholder farmers improve their crops so that they can earn a living and feed their families.
•    Communities strengthen their capacity and ability to provide for their own needs. 

Thank you for advocating on behalf of our sisters and brothers experiencing poverty! Together, our collective voices can make a greater impact on policies that support the common good.

Did you know? Research shows that constituents’ voices have significant influence on congressional members’ decision-making, especially when communications are personalized—like sharing a story or demonstrating the impact an issue will have in the district or state.  Don’t forget to personalize your message!

Photo by Jean-Michel Kpakpo/CRS