FOREIGN ASSISTANCE LTE TEMPLATES 2025

Guidelines:

• Limit your LTE to 150-250 words or check the news outlet’s LTE guidelines online for an exact word limit and the best way to submit the LTE 

• Make clear that there’s broad support for continued humanitarian and development assistance for children around the world 

• Include a clear statement on the problem at hand, and a call to action 

• Include your personal story and why it has made you a strong advocate  

• Include your name, city and daytime phone number 

• Contact Louisa Spofford at lspofford@savechildren.org if you have questions 

TEMPLATE 1: FOR EDUCATORS AND THOSE WHO VALUE EDUCATION 

Subject: US assistance is crucial for global education and stability 

Dear Editor, 

As [an educator], I’ve seen the power of education in transforming lives. That’s why I’m advocating for continued U.S. assistance for children worldwide, especially those in conflict zones. Over 213 million children are currently affected by crises, and many lack access to food, clean water or education. Foreign assistance isn’t charity—it’s an investment in a more stable, peaceful and prosperous world, benefiting us all. 

The U.S. government plays a critical role in funding humanitarian and development assistance that saves children’s lives and helps them grow and learn. In conflict zones across the globe, children need not just food and medical care but education to help them break the cycle of poverty. As a volunteer with Save the Children Action Network, I urge [Representative/Senator’s name] to prioritize foreign assistance funding that helps children thrive. 

Without robust funding, we risk losing ground in our efforts to promote education and protect the world’s most vulnerable. U.S. leadership can make a difference by ensuring these children have the tools to succeed and avoid becoming a future generation lost to conflict. 

[Representative/Senator’s name], the time to act is now—ensure that foreign aid is a top priority in the next budget cycle. The future of our children depends on it. 

Sincerely, 
 

[Your full name] 

[Your city, state] 

Phone: [Your daytime phone number] 

TEMPLATE 2: FOR PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS 

Subject: Foreign aid builds stronger global communities 

Dear Editor, 

As a [former Peace Corps volunteer], I witnessed firsthand the power of foreign assistance in building stronger communities abroad. Through U.S. funding, I [helped teach children in rural Africa], where local governments and organizations struggled to provide basic services. Foreign assistance funded by U.S. taxpayers is a lifeline for children, providing them with the necessary tools to thrive in challenging environments. 

Right now, 213 million children are in desperate need of humanitarian aid due to conflict and disaster. Foreign assistance is essential to saving their lives and giving them the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated and able to contribute to rebuilding their communities. Cutting back on these programs would endanger millions of children, leaving them vulnerable to disease, exploitation and malnutrition. 

As a volunteer with Save the Children Action Network, I urge [Representative/Senator’s name] to prioritize robust funding for humanitarian and development assistance, particularly those programs that protect children and provide education in crisis zones. Foreign assistance is not just about helping others—it’s about safeguarding our own future. By investing in children abroad, we strengthen global stability, promote peace and reduce the long-term costs of conflict. 

I call on [Representative/Senator’s name] to support life-saving foreign aid programs that work to protect children and families worldwide. 

Sincerely, 
[Your full name] 

[Your city, state] 

Phone: [Your daytime phone number] 

TEMPLATE 3: FOR PARENTS OR GRANDPARENTS 

Subject: Foreign aid for children abroad is essential for our safety and prosperity 

Dear Editor, 

As a [parent], I want to ensure that [my] children grow up in a world that is safe, peaceful and prosperous. One of the most effective ways the U.S. government can achieve this is through humanitarian and development assistance—especially for children facing conflict, disaster and hunger. Over 213 million children worldwide urgently need help to survive. U.S. assistance can give these children the chance to thrive, grow and become productive members of society, reducing the risk of conflict and instability globally. 

In my own family, we value education and opportunity, and we believe all children, no matter where they are born, deserve the same. Humanitarian and development assistance is not just a gift to others; it’s an investment in global stability and U.S. national security. The well-being of children in conflict zones, where access to food, medical care and education is scarce, directly impacts the broader world. 

I volunteer with Save the Children Action Network because I believe that supporting children’s health, nutrition and education is not just a moral responsibility—it’s a national security issue. [Representative/Senator’s name], I urge you to advocate for robust funding in foreign aid programs that focus on the protection and education of children around the world. 

Investing in children overseas helps prevent future crises and creates a more stable world for all of us. I ask that you protect this vital funding in ongoing budget discussion. 

Sincerely, 
[Your full name] 

[Your city, state] 

Phone: [Your daytime phone number]