A proposed executive order reportedly under consideration by President Donald Trump could prohibit American nonprofit organizations from distributing funds to causes outside the United States — a move that may have serious consequences for the many tzedakos in Eretz Yisroel that rely heavily on donations from across the Atlantic. According to the NY Post, who first reported about the proposed action, the order would target 501(c)(3) organizations — the designation under U.S. tax law that grants nonprofits tax-exempt status — and bar them from issuing charitable grants abroad. While the order has not yet been finalized, discussions are said to be ongoing at the highest levels of the Trump administration. Should the executive order move forward, the impact could be far-reaching. Currently, thousands of American nonprofits, including many religious organizations, serve as conduits for charitable giving to institutions and individuals in Eretz Yisroel — including yeshivos, kollelim, orphanages, hospitals, and families in need. The new restriction would effectively sever this vital lifeline, unless alternate channels are found. Under present law, American nonprofits can support foreign charitable work so long as the funds serve a clearly defined charitable purpose. These provisions have long enabled U.S. donors to support Torah institutions in Eretz Yisroel while maintaining eligibility for tax deductions. Eliminating that framework would present a giant problem for both the givers and the receivers. While the administration is framing the initiative as part of a broader effort to “prioritize American interests,” sources close to the White House suggested the move also aims to cut off funds from prominent liberal-leaning organizations with global reach — such as the Gates Foundation, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and the Open Society Foundations — all of which have poured billions into progressive causes worldwide. Still, the ramifications would not be limited to large foundations. Religious nonprofits of all stripes — including many that are deeply embedded in Orthodox Jewish communal life — would be equally affected. In 2023, for instance, aid group World Vision International gave tens of millions to relief efforts around the world, and Jewish organizations supporting Yidden in Eretz Yisroel regularly distribute vast sums to mosdos haTorah, families in crisis, and struggling communities and individuals. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)