Toronto, February 28, 2025 – “The decision by governments worldwide to cut foreign aid is a devastating blow to children already facing the worst global humanitarian crisis in a generation. At a time when conflict, poverty, hunger, and climate disasters are pushing millions to the brink, scaling back support will cost lives.
“Save the Children is deeply concerned about the growing trend of governments withdrawing their commitment to international aid. Canada has a long and proud legacy of supporting children and families in times of crisis and must not step away now.
“For over a century, and with the crucial support of donor governments such as Canada, Save the Children has provided health care, nutrition, education, and protection to 1 billion children worldwide. We have always stepped up in times of emergency—whether responding to hunger, war, or natural disasters—and will continue to do so. But these aid cuts force us and our partners to make heartbreaking choices, scaling back critical programs that save children’s lives and create a more peaceful and prosperous world.
“With millions of children depending on humanitarian assistance, the stakes could not be higher. The UN estimates that a staggering 305 million people will need life-saving assistance this year, including 210 million children facing urgent crises.
“Canadians are compassionate and globally connected, and Canada has long been a leader in upholding children’s rights and well-being, both at home and abroad. We cannot turn our backs on these children now.”
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Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In Canada and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.