At Our Health, we believe everyone deserves access to wellness—no matter their background, income, or neighborhood. Health equity means resources must be distributed fairly so each community member has the chance to thrive.

For decades, the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) has played a pivotal role in this mission. It stands as the largest workplace giving program in the U.S., enabling federal employees to support thousands of nonprofits, including many right here in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. To date, the CFC has raised more than $9 billion in contributions—testament to the power and generosity of our federal workforce.

But on August 29, 2025, the Trump administration issued a stop work order on the CFC, halting preparations for the annual drive. This sudden pause raises serious concerns for nonprofits that count on these donations to sustain services.

The CFC isn’t funded by federal dollars. Instead, participating nonprofits pay listing fees, and individual federal employees choose if—and how much—they want to give. That’s what makes this pause so disruptive: nonprofits have already invested in the program, and the loss of this year’s campaign would directly reduce resources available for communities in need.

If the campaign is delayed or canceled, local nonprofits may face:

• Reduced access to care – Fewer funds for mobile health clinics and outreach programs, which help remove barriers like transportation and cost.
• Nutrition gaps – Less support for food security programs and nutrition education, impacting families who rely on consistent aid.
• Strain on mental health resources – Potential cuts to counseling workshops, peer support groups, and crisis hotlines that provide lifelines to community members.
• Prevention setbacks – Fewer screenings and wellness campaigns, which can allow small issues to grow into larger, costlier health problems.

Our Health’s partner agencies have long relied on the CFC to extend their reach:

• Northwestern Community Services Board delivers behavioral health, developmental, and substance use services, ensuring care and recovery support.
• Shenandoah Community Health Clinic provides affordable medical, dental, and behavioral health services to families across the Valley.
• Blue Ridge Hospice offers compassionate care for patients and families, regardless of income.

Without the steady stream of CFC contributions, the ability of these agencies—and many others—to serve the Northern Shenandoah Valley could be weakened.

Right now, nonprofits across the country are waiting for clarity from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on whether the CFC will move forward. In the meantime, this uncertainty underscores just how vital stable, reliable funding sources are for community health.

At Our Health, we will continue to keep our partners and supporters informed as updates emerge. Whatever the outcome, our commitment to building a healthier, more equitable Northern Shenandoah Valley remains unchanged.

Health equity is about fairness, dignity, and opportunity. The CFC has long been a powerful tool for ensuring resources reach those who need them most. Pausing this campaign puts that progress at risk.

Together with our partner agencies, we will continue working to ensure no one in our community is left without the care, nutrition, or support they deserve.