Dear Neighbor— I am reaching out with this special edition newsletter regarding the recent actions taken by President Donald Trump that could freeze nearly all federal grants and loans starting at 5:00 today, January 28, 2025. We are hearing from constituents and stakeholders across the district that many programs are already being impacted or their websites have been completely shut down. My team and I are actively seeking information on what the immediate and long-term effects will be for West Michigan. However, we know at least that this executive action may freeze federal dollars for the following programs: Health and Human Services grants for the Federally Qualified Health CentersDisaster aid through the Federal Emergency Management AgencyMeals on Wheels, as well as school meals for low-income childrenHead StartHousing and medical servicesCommunity project fundsVeterans Affairs programs, including funding to veterans experiencing homelessnessVarious other funding sources our community relies onThe uncertain language of this executive action may have broader implications that can harm our families and neighbors. While the White House claims that direct benefits will not be impacted, we are monitoring the closure of portals, including Medicaid’s payment portal, that do indeed hinder direct benefits. I understand the confusion and worry felt by so many in our community right now. Please know that I am fighting this executive overreach at every turn and continuing to seek any information that could be helpful to those impacted.If you or your organization are a direct federal financial aid recipient who may be impacted by this funding freeze or you have questions on what this means for you, please reply to this email. I would request that you include the following information in your email: 1. Individual or organization name2. If applicable, the grant program name and fiscal year of the award3. A brief summary of any communication you have received regarding your federal financial aid, and one to two sentences on a freeze’s impactWe might not have all the answers yet, but we are bringing your stories to the White House so they understand the impact of this haphazard and widespread order on our community.I will never stop fighting for you, West Michigan.Sincerely,Rep. Scholten