Club's Journalism Institute provides more than $45,000 in emergency funding to USAGM-affiliated journalists at risk

Fifteen journalists have received more than $45,000 in emergency funding this year through a program designed to assist United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM)-affiliated journalists at risk of deportation to countries in which they face credible threats should they return.

The program is coordinated by the National Press Club Journalism Institute with a generous contribution from an external funder.

Since the 2025 reduction-in-force affecting USAGM journalists, including those at Voice of America, the Institute has provided emergency assistance grants and career support for journalists who wish to remain in the field. Grants have helped cover essential expenses including housing, childcare, and mental-health support as recipients navigate unemployment, changing immigration statuses, and, in one case, detention tied to their reporting.

For many, this assistance has provided a vital lifeline, helping them remain safely in the U.S. while continuing to pursue their journalism careers.

Grantees have expressed gratitude and a desire to give back to the Club and Institute: “This initiative makes a real difference, and in my situation, it is incredibly meaningful and helpful,” said one recipient. Another said the support “brought so much hope and happiness into our lives” and that their family “will always remember and appreciate what you’ve done for us.”

The program’s impact extends beyond financial relief. Recipients have shared that the support reduced feelings of isolation during a time of uncertainty and strengthened their connection to the National Press Club community.

“At a time of growing threats to press freedom worldwide, our emergency assistance program reflects the Club and Institute’s commitment to delivering tangible, meaningful support to journalists at risk and ensuring they can continue their essential work,” said NPCJI Executive Director Beth Francesco.