Urgent support for Cambodian organisations following the loss of USAID funding
The sudden termination of USAID funding has left organisations around the world in crisis. Among those affected are child protection organisations that have spent years strengthening family-based care and preventing unnecessary family separation. With funding abruptly cut, vital services such as family preservation, foster care, and reintegration support are now at risk of shutting down, leaving children and families without vital support.
As funders, we at Martin James Foundation took immediate action to provide emergency support where we could. Drawing on our available resources, which are small in comparison to the scale of funding lost, we supported several organisations, including both existing and new partners, to help ensure that critical services could continue.
As part of this response, we provided a pooled fund to Family Care First (FCF) in Cambodia, a network of organisations we had not previously partnered with. We recognise that those working closest with children and families are best placed to determine how funds should be used. This approach enabled timely support to reach those who needed it most. Thanks to this collaborative effort, services have continued for 307 children and families, including those in kinship and foster care, children with disabilities, and households facing significant challenges to their wellbeing and stability.
While this emergency support has helped bridge an immediate gap, it is not a long-term solution. In the coming months, these organisations will require further funding to continue providing the care and protection that children and families depend on. Without it, there is a real risk of unnecessary separation and the loss of hard-won progress towards family-based care in Cambodia.
Together, we can ensure that children and families continue to receive the support they need. Whether you are a funder, an individual donor, or part of a community that believes in the importance of family, your contribution – no matter the size – can help sustain the work of local organisations who are stepping up for children in incredibly difficult circumstances.
These organisations include:
Children’s Future International
Hagar International Foundation
Organization to Improve Communication and Swallowing Therapy Services in Cambodia
They are all rooted in their communities and are committed to keeping children safe and supported within families. With additional funding, they can continue delivering vital services and adapt to the challenges ahead.
If you are in a position to give, you can donate directly to these organisations or through Martin James Foundation. Every donation we receive goes straight to our partners, without unnecessary barriers or delay. 100% of funds will be rapidly distributed to where they are most needed.
“This is a time for us as funders and donors to come together and stand in solidarity with organisations that are under pressure. Hard-earned progress toward family-based care is at risk. We cannot afford to look away. We must listen, adapt, and use our power, resources, and voices to protect what matters most. Together, we can keep this movement alive and ensure children and families continue to receive critical support.” Ailsa Laxton, Director of Global Programmes at MJF
The decisions we make now will shape the future of care for children across the globe. We cannot allow them to bear the cost of this crisis.
To better understand the scale of this crisis and the opportunity funders have to make a difference, read our full statement from our Director of Global Programmes: When the Funding Stops: Prioritising Children and Families Amidst a Crisis.
