Giving Compass' Take:

• Here is a recap of a funder discussion that explains several funds currently supporting journalists during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

• In what other ways can donors offer resources to help local news survive during this time?

• Learn why solutions journalism is vital in covering COVID-19.

Journalists are on the frontlines reporting on what citizens need to know to be safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Quality news at the local level has never been more important, but newsroom operations around the country are teetering on the brink of collapse in this new economic reality.

This week, we hosted a discussion for funders to hear from journalists out in the field, to ask questions, and share ideas. As we determine next steps for moving this critical work forward, MIF Executive Director Vince Stehle—in his latest column for the Chronicle of Philanthropy—also stresses the importance of taking stock of the philanthropic investments in local news that are paying off now, at a time when Americans need accurate, quality information the most.

The second half of the discussion provided funders with the opportunity to hear about rapid-response grant opportunities and possibilities for collaboration.

A few highlights:

  • Dorrine Mendoza, Strategic Partner Development at Facebook, shared details about the new $1 million grant supported by the Facebook Journalism Project, the Lenfest Institute for Journalism, and the Local Media Association to support U.S. and Canadian local news organizations covering the coronavirus. See the first round of grantees here.
  • The National Geographic Society, one of the largest funders of individual journalists, has launched a global emergency fund for journalists. Kaitlin Yarnall, Grants will be $1,000-$8,000. The fund will place particular emphasis on delivering news to underserved populations, and will focus on local and hyperlocal stories.
  • The International Women’s Media Foundation has launched the Journalism Relief Fund. “There’s been an increase in dependence on freelance journalists in the last decade,” said Elisa Lees Muñoz, Executive Director, International Women’s Media Foundation. “Those are the people who are most hurting. And I’m not sure if all of these people will come out on the other end as journalists.”

Read the full article about funds supporting journalists amidst COVID-19 at Media Impact Funders.