What's Happening?
The Trump administration has issued a 'Stop Work Order' on the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), the largest federal workers' charity drive in the United States. This decision, announced by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), halts all activities related to the 2025 campaign, including the scheduled website launch. The CFC, established in the 1960s, has raised nearly $9 billion for various charities, allowing federal employees to donate part of their paycheck to causes they support. The pause has surprised many in the nonprofit sector, as the campaign has historically been supported by administrations from both political parties. Charities involved in this year's drive have already paid application and listing fees, and are now uncertain about the campaign's future.
Why It's Important?
The pause in the CFC campaign could have significant implications for numerous charities that rely on this annual fundraising effort. Last year, the campaign raised $66 million, supporting a wide range of causes including food banks, veterans' charities, and disaster relief organizations. The decision to halt the campaign may exacerbate financial challenges for nonprofits, some of which have already faced funding cuts under the Trump administration's spending policies. This move could impact the ability of these organizations to provide essential services to communities across the country, particularly in the mid-Atlantic region where nearly half of last year's funds were allocated.
What's Next?
The OPM has not yet decided whether the charity drive will proceed this year, leaving participating charities in a state of uncertainty. Nonprofits are awaiting further communication from the OPM regarding the campaign's fate. The decision could prompt reactions from political leaders, nonprofit advocates, and federal employees who have traditionally supported the campaign. If the campaign does not proceed, charities may need to seek alternative fundraising strategies to compensate for the potential loss of donations.
