Washington DC [US], April 26 (ANI):
The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has directed AmeriCorps to cut nearly USD 400 million in grants — about 41% of the agency’s total grant funding — according to sources cited by The Washington Post.
AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, enrolls over 200,000 individuals each year to serve nonprofits and community organizations.
Created in 1993 under President Bill Clinton, AmeriCorps absorbed earlier initiatives like Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA), an anti-poverty program launched in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.
The funding cuts are expected to impact 1,031 organizations and approximately 32,465 AmeriCorps members and senior volunteers.
The agency’s total budget for the 2025 fiscal year stands around USD 1 billion.
Termination notices for the grants began going out Friday.
Recipients were informed that their awards “no longer effectuate agency priorities,” according to notices reviewed by The Washington Post.
California Governor Gavin Newsom swiftly responded after the state received termination notices for its AmeriCorps grant programs.
In a statement, Newsom condemned the move, accusing the Trump Administration of dismantling national service programs.
He announced California would challenge the decision in court and would accelerate the expansion of the California Service Corps, now larger than the Peace Corps.
“When the devastating fires struck Los Angeles earlier this year, AmeriCorps members were on the ground, distributing supplies and supporting families,” the Governor’s statement noted.
“The agency’s shutdown hamstrings these critical efforts.”
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) also voiced disappointment, emphasizing his support for government efficiency but opposing cuts to vital AmeriCorps grants.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Cassidy wrote, “Getting various reports that DOGE RIFs at @AmeriCorps are being extended to the cancellation of Congressionally appropriated grants. Attempting to get more information from DOGE/OMB to confirm or disprove these reports.”
He added, “I support improving efficiency and eliminating waste, but I would have to object to cutting AmeriCorps grants like those that support Louisiana’s veterans and organizations that provide crucial support after hurricanes and natural disasters.” (ANI)
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