With thousands of newspapers shuttered and millions of Americans left without access to local reporting, communities are losing the information they need to stay informed and connected.
Local public media is one of the last remaining institutions positioned to fill this gap – but it needs greater support to meet the growing demand.
The Scale of the Crisis
- Over 3,000 local newspapers have closed in the last 20 years.
- More than 1,800 communities now lack any local newspaper.
- Remaining outlets often have minimal staff and limited coverage.
Communities without local reporting see lower civic engagement, less accountability, and greater division – weakening connection and society at the local level.
Why Local Public Media Is the Solution
Local public media organizations are uniquely positioned to help fill this gap because they:
- Serve broad audiences through TV, radio, digital platforms, and in-person events in urban, rural, and underserved areas.
- Operate with public service missions rather than profit motives, ensuring free, accessible content.
- Employ thousands of journalists already reporting on local and regional issues.
- Provide more than news, offering education, cultural programming, and emergency communications that protect and enrich communities.
Take Action
Strengthening local public media helps address the growing crisis in local news, ensuring that every community – urban or rural – has access to trusted information, education, and cultural connection.
See how you can help, including by supporting the Public Media Bridge Fund that helps secure local public media service for organizations and communities facing the greatest risks.
Need Guidance? Send us an email – we’re happy to help target your support where it can have the greatest impact.