Use Your Voice
Stop budget cuts that punish vulnerable communities.
In moments of crisis, our nation must lead with compassion — not punishment.
Recent developments have made this truth even more urgent. What began as threatening proposals has now become law, intensifying the harm to vulnerable communities.
What’s Changed Since We Last Spoke:
-
H.R. 1—“One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has become law as of July 4, 2025 (Public Law No. 119-21) after passing both chambers of Congress.
-
As a direct result, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented new fees for humanitarian immigration applications. Any application postmarked on or after July 22, 2025 requiring updated fees must include them to be considered. Starting August 21, 2025, USCIS will reject any applications lacking the proper fees.
-
The FY 2026 federal budget continues to include deep cuts to refugee and humanitarian assistance programs. Notably, the appropriations committee eliminated funding for Transitional and Medical Services, Refugee Support Services, and similar programs that help new arrivals access critical help.
-
Partner refugee and advocacy groups, including Refugee Council USA, are calling on the Administration to enforce a Presidential Determination for 125,000 refugee admissions for FY 2026, by October 1, 2025, to fulfill statutory obligations and uphold humanitarian commitments.
What’s at Stake
| Group/Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Lawful immigrants & asylum seekers | Face new mandatory fees for humanitarian applications; without payment, applications are denied outright. |
| Immigrant families | About 250,000 lawfully present individuals—including 50,000 children—may lose access to SNAP benefits once considered fundamental rights. |
| Refugee & humanitarian programs | Domestic aid such as social services and medical support has been cut; global assistance is now subject to greater executive discretion and erosion. |
These are not just policy shifts—they are moral choices. As communities of faith, we are called to uphold the dignity of every person.
Our Call to Action — What You Can Do
-
Raise your voice: Urge legislators to reinstate affordable access to immigration and asylum benefits. These must remain rooted in humanity—not gatekeeping.
-
Fight for food justice: Push back against the removal of SNAP access for immigrant families.
-
Defend refugee aid: Demand that FY 2026 appropriations preserve funding for witnessable humanitarian programs, and that Refugee Support Services and medical support are restored.
-
Backup RCUSA’s call: Sign petitions or contact the White House and Congress to support a Presidential Determination of 125,000 for FY 2026 refugee admissions, as required by law.
Let our leaders know: We choose faith over fear — and justice over indifference.
