Trump Freezes U.S. Federal Funds That Could Affect Thousands of Cape Verdeans Who Depend on Social Assistance

The Trump administration's recent order to temporarily freeze federal funds is generating great concern among organizations and communities that depend on these resources. The memorandum, issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), suspends payments from federal financial assistance programs, such as SNAP (food stamp program) and Section 8 housing assistance, which are crucial to thousands of Cabo Verdeans living in the United States.

Cabo Verdeans who depend on SNAP food assistance and Section 8 housing assistance are concerned.

Cape Verdeans who rely on SNAP food assistance and housing subsidies from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) could face significant hardships with the freeze. SNAP, which serves about 41 million Americans, and Section 8 aid are the foundation for many low-income families, providing essential support for food and housing. An interruption in payments could exacerbate food insecurity and the risk of eviction among recipients.

The freezing of funds has generated a wave of criticism and legal action. Organizations such as the National Council of Nonprofits argue that the government does not have the legal authority to unilaterally withhold these funds. In a statement, the council pointed out that "the memorandum will have a devastating impact on hundreds of thousands of grant recipients, making it difficult for them to continue their missions and essential services to vulnerable populations."

The memorandum affects hundreds of thousands of grant recipients, making it difficult for them to continue their missions and essential services to vulnerable populations.

The memorandum also affects other programs, such as the National School Lunch Program, which provides school meals to children from low-income families, creating gaps in funding for critical social welfare initiatives.

While the administration has assured that the freeze does not directly affect benefits like Medicare and Social Security, SNAP and other programs administered by states and local governments remain in a gray zone. Experts warn that the ambiguous language of the memo could result in significant delays in payments, putting vulnerable families at risk.

According to the OMB, the pause is necessary to review the programs and ensure that they are aligned with the Trump administration's priorities, including reducing spending considered a "waste of public money". However, this reassessment increases uncertainty for long-term beneficiaries.

The Cape Verdean community in the US has faced ongoing challenges on social and economic issues. Many depend on federal programs to meet basic needs. The suspension of funds comes in a context where, in recent years, deportations and political changes have already significantly impacted the stability of Cape Verdeans in the country. Between 2018 and 2023, the number of deportees to Cape Verde varied between 4 and 68 per year, highlighting the vulnerability of the community.

Defense organizations, such as the National Council of Nonprofits, are pushing for an immediate suspension of the freeze through lawsuits. Meanwhile, congressional leaders, such as Senator Chuck Schumer, are criticizing the decision as an "attack on the country's most vulnerable communities". The full impact of this measure will depend on program reviews and court decisions expected in the coming weeks.