We have good news to share!

Dear Down in the County readers,

Today, Down in the County was named a Press Forward grant recipient. We join this inaugural, historic cohort of more than 200 local newsrooms across the country that are filling critical information gaps and working in service of our communities.

Since 2021, we have provided stories, events and resources that celebrate the people and history of Pamlico County. A review panel of national foundation and journalism leaders read about how our Down in the County is making a difference, right here at home.

Over the years, we have:

• Celebrated and respected the people of our county, their similarities and their differences, without feeding political divisiveness.

• Provided visual-first coverage of the county.

• Mentored local youth in journalism and photojournalism

• Maintained an online archive of our history, events and resources.

The $100,000 over two years that we are receiving from Press Forward is more than just a grant. It’s a symbolic gesture that national funders are investing in Down in the County, and ultimately, in Pamlico County and its residents.

This grant is wonderful news, but we need local support to sustain this work for the long term — for all of us.

If you would like to contribute as a writer, full-time or part-time, reach me at [email protected].

Donate to become a vital part of growing a visual and written history of the county.

Thank you for believing in Down in the County. We look forward to serving Pamlico County for years to come.

With gratitude,

Andrea Bruce, Publisher