In growing news deserts, your support makes a difference
Dec. 2, 2025
Nearly 40% of U.S. newspapers have disappeared since 2005, leaving 50 million Americans with limited or no access to reliable local news, according to a recent report by Northwestern University’s Medill Local News Initiative.
While corporate outlets continue to consolidate or close, Investigate Midwest continues to build something different: a nonprofit newsroom powered by readers — not shareholders — to provide watchdog reporting on the U.S. food system and the forces that shape it.
This GivingTuesday, you can help keep our independence strong. We’re working to raise — in one day — $5,000. And, thanks to NewsMatch, Rural Partner Fund and the Joyce Foundation, all gifts up to $1,000 per donor will be matched dollar for dollar.
Nowhere are the consequences of a strained food system more visible than in rural America, home to nearly 80% of U.S. news deserts. In some rural counties, fewer than 1 in 10 residents have access to high-speed internet, and many small, independently-owned papers that once served as community anchors have closed in the past year. These gaps make it harder for people to access essential information about their water, land, workplaces and public health.
Which is why we believe that nonprofit news is a vital public service and it deserves community-wide support. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, food access and quality, or public health issues, our data-driven, fact-based reporting helps you better understand the issues that matter most to you and your family.
All the best,
Lauren Cross,
Assistant Editor & Audience Engagement Manager
P.S. NewsMatch only runs through Dec. 31! Give now to ensure your gift is matched and your impact is tripled.
Investigate Midwest relies on donations, and fundraisers like this one, to exist. We appreciate your patience with extra emails during these times. Thanks for being a part of the Investigate Midwest community.
