SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Syracuse nonprofit organization InterFaith Works laid off a large portion of its employees following recent federal aid cuts.
The Central New York nonprofit has helped thousands of refugees settle down in the Syracuse area. However, President Donald Trump’s administration has not reimbursed InterFaith Works for approved expenses since January. The organization is faced with losing nearly $4 million in federal aid.
Kate Qureshi, a Syracuse University student and daughter of a refugee, does not agree with the cutback on funds.
“I think it’s absolutely absurd, that with everything going on in the world, to cut costs and aid to something that’s so important and beneficial,” Qureshi said.
InterFaith Works has settled over 2,500 refugees in the Syracuse region since 2020. The agency laid off 19 employees as a result of the cuts. InterFaith Works is keeping 26 employees to handle the refugees in the area.
“One of the best things about our country is how privileged we are,” Qureshi said. “I think the best thing to help the rest of the world is to use our privilege to help them.”
The cuts to federal aid affected more than just InterFaith Works in the Syracuse area. Catholic Charities of Onondaga County was forced to get rid of 51 jobs.
InterFaith Works provides services for those in need other than refugees as well. This includes 51 food pantries in the Central New York region.
AUDIO TRANSCRIPT: Federal cuts force Syracuse nonprofit to lay off employees
Greg Carlton: Syracuse nonprofit organization InterFaith Works is laying off a large portion of its employees following recent federal aid cuts. NCC News reporter Ryan Storie has more on the agency’s layoffs.
Ryan Storie: The Central New York nonprofit has helped thousands of refugees settle down in the Syracuse area. However, President Donald Trump’s administration has not reimbursed InterFaith Works for approved expenses since January. Kate Qureshi, a Syracuse University student and daughter of a refugee, does not agree with the cutback on funds.
Kate Qureshi: I think it’s absolutely absurd, that with everything going on in the world, to cut costs and aid to something that’s so important and beneficial.
Storie: InterFaith Works has settled over 2,500 refugees in the Syracuse region since 2020.
Qureshi: One of the best things about our country is how privileged we are.
Storie: For NCC News, I’m Ryan Storie.