On January 29th, 2001, the President signed an Executive Order establishing the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. The goal was to allow access of federal funds to faith-based and non-profit groups that provide social services in America’s communities. It also created offices within the Departments of Justice, Labor, HUD, HHS and Education to ensure cooperation between the public and private sector.

There has been some concern federal funding for these programs would violate the First Amendment. This argument is simply unfounded. Allowing non-profit groups to serve their communities by providing a needed social service does not interfere with the so-called “separation of church and state.” In fact, no denomination is favored, and no government money is used for proselytizing. Further, as former Chief Justice Rehnquist declared, we must “frankly and explicitly abandon” the notion that there is a “wall” that forbids the government from helping religious groups pay their operational costs. Faith-based organizations are driven by their compassion for humanity to aid those in need, and many individuals have already benefited from the work of these selfless and loving organizations. Our government should eagerly assist these organizations in their efforts.

Faith Based Links*

White House Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Faith-Based & Community Initiatives

U.S. Department of Justice Task Force for Faith Based and Community Initiatives