As an association of journalists which includes many freelance reporters and entertainment journalists, HFPA members are well cognizant of the seismic changes the profession has undergone in recent years. As traditional business models and revenue streams have been called into question by the mergence of the internet and digital media, newsrooms have been decimated in the US and the world over. While the industry is still struggling to find structural solutions to a systemic crisis, the pandemic has only compounded the crisis, depriving many colleagues of their livelihoods.  

With this in mind, last year the HFPA contributed $125,000 to the Los Angeles Press Club’s Emergency Fund for Southern California journalists. This year an additional grant of $50,000 was approved to replenish the fund which in turn disburses grants to Southland-based journalists and photographers facing financial hardship.

Applicants do not need to be members of the Los Angeles Press Club nor the HFPA but need to reside in Southern California.

The Los Angeles Press Club is hoping to make this a permanent emergency fund. Anyone interested in donating to the fund can click here! All donations are fully tax-deductible.

To apply for funds click here.