An Easy-to-Understand Perspective on Recent Changes to Vaccine Funding
Sometimes in life, we might think wisdom is just for the experts, the powerful, or those with fancy degrees. But throughout history, and especially in the teachings of many faiths, there’s this comforting idea: God gives wisdom to everyone, even to those who might seem “simple” or ordinary. In other words, you don’t have to be a genius or a leader to have good judgment, especially when it comes to caring about your community.
Recently, there’s been a big change in how the U.S. government supports global health. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has decided to stop funding GAVI, which is a group that helps get vaccines to kids all over the world. Now, every government has to make tough choices about where to spend taxpayer dollars. And to be fair, the U.S. isn’t the only country that’s spending less on foreign aid these days.
But here’s where that simple wisdom really matters. Even if you’re not a scientist, you might understand something basic: keeping kids healthy is good for everyone. Vaccines are one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect children from dangerous diseases. When children are vaccinated, they’re less likely to get sick, which means they can grow, learn, and play. Healthy kids become healthy adults, and that helps families and whole countries stay strong and stable.
If we stop supporting things like vaccines, more children could get sick from diseases we already know how to prevent. That doesn’t just affect faraway places—it can have ripple effects on the entire world, including right here at home. When fewer people are protected, it’s easier for diseases to spread.
God’s wisdom often shows up in simple truths: Take care of each other. Protect the vulnerable. Think about the future, not just today. Supporting childhood immunizations is one way to put that wisdom into action.
So, even if governments have to make hard choices, it’s important for all of us—no matter how “simple” or ordinary we might feel—to remember why these choices matter. When we make health a priority, we make the world a better place for everyone.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 