Colleges Scramble to Fill Void Left by Trump's Cuts to Migrant Student Support Programs

Colleges Pull Back as Trump Cuts Programs that Help Migrant Students The Trump administration's decision to halt funding for the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) has left colleges scrambling to make up for the loss, with some institutions laying off staff members and cutting back services. The program, which served about 2,400 students annually since its creation in 1972, provided first-year students from migrant families with internship resources, mental health counseling, tutoring, and financial aid. The U.S. Education Department notified colleges that they would not receive funding for the program, citing a proposed budget for 2026 that claims such programs are "extremely costly" and "not proven effective." However, advocates for migrant students argue that these programs are crucial in helping them succeed in college and beyond. Financial Impact The halt in funding comes as colleges were expecting to receive approximately $2.4 million over five years this fall. The loss of funding will likely have a ripple effect on institutions, which may need to reallocate resources or cut back on services to make up for the shortfall. Company Background and Context CAMP was established in 1972 to provide support services to first-generation college students from migrant families. The program has been successful in helping these students succeed in college, with a retention rate of over 80% compared to the national average of around 60%. Colleges that participate in CAMP include Arizona State University, Texas A&M University, and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Market Implications and Reactions The decision to cut funding for CAMP has been met with criticism from advocacy groups and educators. "This is a devastating blow to our students who are already facing significant barriers in accessing higher education," said Maria Blanco, executive director of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF). "We urge the administration to reconsider its decision and continue funding for CAMP." Colleges that participate in CAMP are also expressing concern about the impact on their students. "We're deeply disappointed by this decision and will do everything we can to support our students who rely on these services," said a spokesperson for Arizona State University. Stakeholder Perspectives Students who benefit from CAMP are also speaking out against the decision. "CAMP has been instrumental in my success at college," said Juan Hernandez, a junior at UCLA. "Without it, I wouldn't have access to the resources and support I need to graduate." Advocacy groups are calling on Congress to intervene and restore funding for CAMP. "We urge lawmakers to take action and ensure that these programs continue to receive the necessary funding," said Blanco. Future Outlook and Next Steps The future of CAMP remains uncertain as colleges and advocacy groups wait for a resolution from the administration. In the meantime, institutions are exploring alternative funding sources or cutting back on services to make up for the loss. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the impact of this decision will be felt far beyond the college campus. "This is not just about CAMP; it's about the future of our country," said Blanco. "We need to invest in programs that support marginalized communities and help them succeed." In conclusion, the Trump administration's decision to cut funding for CAMP has left colleges scrambling to make up for the loss. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the impact will be felt far beyond the college campus, and it's essential to prioritize programs that support marginalized communities. *Financial data compiled from Npr reporting.*