EngenderHealth Newsletter | August 2025: Special USAID Impact Edition
The difference is clear in every story: what was once stable, supported, and lifesaving—has been abruptly cut off.
Across the world, USAID helped power health systems: life-changing surgeries, stocked clinics, trained providers, reliable care. Then the funding ended. Suddenly. With no warning. No transition. And no time for countries to prepare.
This special collection shares just a few of the stories we’ve heard—from Burundi, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Tanzania, and beyond. But we know there are many more.
What are you seeing? What have you heard?
Share your story through this form or on social media by tagging @EngenderHealth and using the hashtag #BecauseOfUSAID.
Help Us Take Action
The U.S. government is preparing to destroy more than $10 million worth of unused contraceptives—supplies funded by USAID and intended for communities around the world.
We believe these supplies should be redirected, not incinerated.
Sign our petition urging the U.S. Department of State to stop the destruction and send these contraceptives to health systems reeling from the loss of USAID support.
USAID’s Legacy and the Challenges Ahead
For decades, USAID helped build stronger health systems and save lives. These stories show what was achieved and the challenges now facing communities without that support.
Burundi: Reaching Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
Our USAID-funded GBV prevention work reached women who had never had support before. Discover the impact on survivors and communities…
Ethiopia: Strengthening Health Systems from the Ground Up
USAID-supported efforts helped EngenderHealth lead emergency responses to malaria and cholera outbreaks. See the power of community-driven care…
Guinea: Fistula Care, Nearly Lost
USAID funded critical services for women with fistula, until support vanished days before launch. See how dignity was restored against the odds…
Nigeria: The Hidden Cost of Cuts
When USAID support vanished, providers had no choice but to use expired or substandard supplies. See how women are paying the price…
Tanzania: Sudden Exit, Lasting Impact
When USAID closed its programs overnight, the effects were immediate and deep. See what was lost and what remains…
These stories show both what was achieved and what’s at risk without sustained support. Explore the full USAID Impact Story collection to understand the real impact of U.S. foreign aid—and join us in raising awareness about what comes next.
These articles informed and inspired us, we hope they do the same for you.
Government Grant Cuts and Nonprofit Impact
This eye-opening report from The Chronicle of Philanthropy and AP reveals how recent government grant cuts are shaking the nonprofit sector and threatening essential services in communities across the country. Read the article…
The Legacy Lives On
The USAID-funded MOMENTUM Safe Surgery in Family Planning and Obstetrics project was terminated early as part of the broader dismantling of USAID. However, its comprehensive resources and tools remain available, continuing to support maternal health and family planning worldwide. Explore the resources…
Our Voices Are Being Heard
More than 80 members of Congress are demanding an investigation into the State Department’s decision to destroy millions of contraceptives, echoing the call in our petition. Read the statement…
What You Can Do
The stories above reflect both what USAID made possible, and what its sudden withdrawal has left behind. If you’ve witnessed the consequences or heard from communities affected, we want to hear from you.
- Submit your #BecauseOfUSAID Story: Online submission form.
Post online: Share what you’ve seen on social media by tagging @EngenderHealth and using #BecauseOfUSAID. - Explore more stories: Read our complete USAID Impact Story collection.
Lives are on the line. Let’s do something—together.
We’d love to hear from you about what you want to see in future newsletters. Contact us at social@engenderhealth.org.
This newsletter was originally shared over email on August 4, 2025.
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