Nearly 10 talented Charlotte Observer journalists committed to bringing positive impact to our community got laid off Sept 10 as part of a McClatchy sweep that claimed more than 90 jobs nationwide.

These local reporters have worked tirelessly to bring you the latest on education, public safety, transportation news, elections and so much more. They've investigated fraudulent companies, working conditions for city bus drivers and police.

They're driven by wanting to make difference and improve systems that are broken in North Carolina.

Now, they need your help. Please consider chipping in to help tie these folks over while they start job hunting in a rough market. Money will be distributed evenly among all of those laid off.