A halt on federal funds could jeopardize 70% of The Friendship Center’s funding. Help us safeguard our services by contacting your federal elected officials.
This week, the White House rescinded a controversial memo directing all federal agencies to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and assistance programs until those programs could be reviewed for compliance with recently issued Executive Orders.
Initially set to take effect on Tuesday, January 28, the freeze was blocked by a federal judge, temporarily pausing the ordered freeze until Monday, February 3. In a new memo issued Wednesday, January 29, the Office of Management and Budget rescinded the original memo.
Although federal funds are no longer under immediate threat, we anticipate continued attempts to cut federal programs. The Friendship Center receives 70% of the funding needed to carry out our mission from federal grant programs, all of which were subject to review under Monday’s memo signed by President Trump.
The implications any cuts to federal funding would have on our agency alone is difficult to grapple with. More than 700 people per year rely on The Friendship Center for safety and often life-saving services.
If federal funds are rescinded, the impact on our community would be serious. It could:
Reduce the number of clients we can serve by nearly two-thirds, or roughly 500 clients per year
Eliminate our 24/7 crisis line
Eliminate in-person responses to the hospital and law enforcement center
Eliminate offsite emergency shelter options
Eliminate our rental assistance program
Eliminate any other programming, such as skills classes, collaborative partnerships/initiatives with other service providers, and civil legal representation
Not knowing if and how long it will be before federal funds are again targeted—or if any freeze on funding would be permanent—casts significant uncertainty. In weeks ahead, we will continue evaluating the impacts any suspension of federal funding would have by planning, analyzing cash flow, and preparing for contingencies.
Along with our services, this is an issue that will impact many of our partners, across a variety of fields and services that our clients and other community members often rely on for support as well.
Please help us safeguard our services by reaching out to your federal elected officials and asking them what they are going to do to protect federal funding for domestic and sexual violence programs in our state.
We know you support The Friendship Center because you care about the people in our community. It is awful to contemplate the impact any cuts to federal funding would have, which is why your support is so critical and appreciated. As a valued partner and supporter of our work, we will keep you updated.
While phone calls are more effective and relayed more quickly to elected officials, any support will be greatly appreciated. Use the information below to contact our members of congress.
Rep. Downing
DC Office: 202.225.3211
Helena Office: 406.502.1435
Rep. Zinke
DC Office: 202.225.5628
Bozeman Office: 406.602.6030
Sen. Daines
DC Office: 202.224.2651
Helena Office: 406.443.3189
Sen. Sheehy
DC Office: 202.224.2644
(No Montana office phone available)
Violence does not discriminate, and The Friendship Center will continue to stand with anyone who has been impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. If you or someone you know needs help, our services are available 24/7. Visit our services page to explore resources for victims and advocates, learn more about our services, and get connected with an advocate.
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