Lifesaving programs

As a third-year medical student at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, I've come to appreciate how much basic needs--food, clean water, shelter, and medicine--affect health outcomes, especially for people living through crisis. That's why I am writing to express concern about the steep reduction in U.S. humanitarian assistance proposed in the House's fiscal year 2026 legislation.

The current proposal would cut humanitarian aid from $8.7 billion to $5.5 billion--a nearly 40 percent decrease. This funding supports people displaced by war, natural disasters, and famine. It provides lifesaving supplies and services during some of the worst moments a person can face. Importantly, this account is separate from the Global Health Programs budget and is critical to emergency response efforts worldwide.

I believe the United States has a long-standing tradition of helping those in need, and this humanitarian leadership strengthens both our moral standing and global stability.

I respectfully urge our U.S. senators to support at least current levels of funding for international humanitarian assistance in the FY26 budget. This is not a partisan issue--it's about preserving life and reflecting the values we hold as Americans.

LOUIS STEEN

Little Rock

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