Club establishes fund to support furloughed staff

The National Press Club has created a fund to help staff members who have been furloughed due to a slowdown in business operations caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Donations can be made to the NPC Staff Support Fund. The money collected will be converted into gift cards that can be used to buy groceries.

Last week, the Club furloughed 46 staff members. The professional staff who retained their positions took a 15 percent pay cut. Furloughed employees retain their health benefits, are eligible for unemployment and can be called back as business picks up.

Shortly after the furloughs were announced, several Club members contacted Club President Michael Freedman to ask how they could help financially those who lost their jobs. At the Club board meeting earlier this month at which the furloughs were approved, board members also expressed their backing of a support fund.

“Often, the toughest times bring out the best in people,” Freedman said. “This outpouring of support and generosity from our membership has been heartening. Everyone has been touched by this crisis and many want to help others in need. The spirit of family at the National Press Club has never shined brighter than right now." 

 The furlough support fund is another example of Club members stepping up to assist those in need. Earlier in the pandemic, they delivered groceries and other critical supplies to older members of the Club community.

“One of the best qualities of Club members is their instinct to help,” said Club Executive Director Bill McCarren. “But lots of people need help in 2020. I am grateful how many of our members have chosen to help the furloughed staff and their families. That says it all. “