In a swift and decisive move, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has outlined specific instructions for its recently dismissed employees to collect personal belongings from the now-closed Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C. This action comes as part of the Trump administration’s broader initiative to significantly reduce the agency’s operations.
Scheduled Retrieval Period
Former USAID staff have been granted access to the building on Thursday, February 27, and Friday, February 28, during designated time slots. Each slot spans between 60 to 90 minutes; however, individuals are allocated approximately 15 minutes to gather their personal items from their workspaces. The agency emphasizes the importance of adhering to these time constraints, especially for those with numerous belongings. Flexibility may be considered in select cases, pending approval from the Office of Security.
(USAID Building found dead)
Procedural Guidelines
Employees are required to bring their own packing materials and containers. Before exiting, they must acknowledge receipt of their personal items and confirm the absence of any government records, both physical and electronic, among their possessions. The agency has stipulated that only personal items may be removed; government property is to remain untouched. Standard security protocols, including magnetometer and x-ray screenings, will be in effect upon entry. Visitors, children, and staff lacking proper credentials are prohibited from entering the premises.
Unclaimed Belongings
USAID slashed by the Trump administration after Elon Musk-led DOGE determined the agency spent millions funding questionable programs and initiatives across the world. (Getty Images)
For those unable to retrieve their items during the specified dates, the General Services Administration will pack and transfer unclaimed belongings to a government warehouse for later collection. This process underscores the agency’s commitment to maintaining security and accountability during the transition.
Context of the Agency’s Reduction
This development follows the Trump administration’s decision to place nearly 1,600 USAID employees on administrative leave globally, excluding those involved in mission-critical functions, core leadership, or specially designated programs. The reduction-in-force initiative has drastically decreased the agency’s workforce, leaving approximately 300 staff members to manage essential operations. This action is part of a broader strategy to dismantle the agency, with plans to eliminate over 90% of USAID’s contracts and reduce $60 billion in global assistance.
The administration’s decision has faced criticism from various quarters, including former USAID employees and global health advocates. Protests have been staged, highlighting concerns over the potential negative impacts on global health initiatives and humanitarian assistance programs.
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