1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent federal funding cuts to child abuse prevention programs, as reported by ProPublica. These cuts have withdrawn essential resources for investigating child sexual abuse, responding to reports of missing children, and preventing youth violence. The administration’s decision to eliminate funding for these critical services puts vulnerable children at greater risk and undermines decades of progress in child protection. According to ProPublica, the federal office overseeing child support enforcement has been hollowed out, and funding for investigating internet crimes against children has been withdrawn indefinitely. These reductions have already led to mass layoffs of workers responsible for child protective services, education, and child care. The consequences of these cuts will be felt nationwide, leaving countless children without the support they need. Bruce Lesley, president of First Focus on Children, stated, *“Everyone’s been talking about what the Trump administration and DOJ have been doing, but no one seems to be talking about how, in a lot of ways, it’s been an assault on kids.”* The administration’s actions have disproportionately targeted programs designed to safeguard children, including Head Start preschools, which are now facing widespread closures. I urge you to take immediate action to restore funding for child abuse prevention programs and ensure that federal resources continue to protect our nation’s most vulnerable children. The well-being of our future generations depends on strong leadership and a commitment to child welfare.