MBF Family & Friends,
You may have heard about USAID in the news recently. I want to take a moment to clarify what these changes mean for MBF and, most importantly, for the lifesaving work you support.
First and foremost, MBF does not receive USAID funding to operate. Over the years, we have secured small, one-time grants through the USAID American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA) program. These grants have been used exclusively for buildings and equipment—never for programmatic activities, personnel, or even MBF’s operational costs. In fact, these grants often required MBF to contribute funds, making us fully accountable for managing the project while raising additional donor support to make it happen.
This approach has greatly benefited our international partners. A prime example is FSIL, the very first baccalaureate nursing program in Haiti, which was built with support from ASHA grants and continues to operate today despite the country's ongoing crisis.
What’s Happening at USAID?
Last week, USAID’s website went dark. A new message has now appeared, stating that all USAID direct-hire personnel globally—except for a few exceptions—will be placed on administrative leave this Friday. Those stationed abroad will be recalled within 30 days.
Until just two weeks ago, USAID was the largest donor in the world, employing more than 10,000 people across 130+ countries. While we have not always agreed with USAID’s policies, we recognize that thousands of individuals and their families are now facing uncertainty. We are praying for them during this difficult time.
Impact on Kenya Hospitals
Unfortunately, our three hospital partners in Kenya have been caught in the chaos over the last two weeks. The USAID-funded HIV and TB Program in Kenya initially forced them to completely shut down dedicated HIV clinics at the three partner hospitals. These services were integrated into the general outpatient departments, requiring patients to contribute a small fee of $0.50–$1 per visit. Initially, more than 30 staff members across the three hospitals were placed on unpaid leave, while the remaining staff were reassigned to other departments due to staff shortages.
Clarification was just made today that certain activities for HIV and TB-specific clinics may resume. What we do know is that medications will continue to be available, but we are uncertain about staffing for the clinics.
Impact on Malawi
Mission Hospitals: The HIV and TB patients at the Malawi partner hospitals are normally treated as part of the general outpatient clinics and not separate funded clinics. The hospitals have existing stocks of drugs, and it appears that PEPFAR will continue to provide supplies. While the HIV and TB treatment at our partner hospital will continue, there is great uncertainty and concern as to what is planned and expected.
Beyond Hospitals in Malawi: USAID-funded education, research, and other critical projects have been shut down. The depth of USAID’s funding in non-health sectors is vast, and its sudden disappearance will have widespread consequences.
Standing in the Gap
This situation underscores the importance of your ministry, which ensures that mission hospitals and healthcare ministries continue their work regardless of the shifting landscape of international aid. Your ministry ensures that the most vulnerable still receive the care they need, even as global funding fluctuates.
Thank you for standing with us.
With blessings and gratitude,
E. Andrew Mayo
President & CEO | 
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