The Ridgeline — a nonprofit news outlet filling news gaps in underserved Hudson Valley communities — is the product of two Hudson Valley residents, SUNY New Paltz alumni and local journalists, Kyle Bredberg and Sara Vala.

While working and editing for publications across the mid-Hudson Valley, we noticed a problem: many local communities in the mid-Hudson Valley lack adequate media coverage.

Over the past few months, we have been working diligently to fill that news media gap by launchingThe Ridgeline, an online community news and storytelling publication.

The Ridgeline is dedicated to serving the people of Esopus, Lloyd, New Paltz and the surrounding communities. We are a publication of the people, for the people, and aim to provide factual news and magazine-style storytelling to Hudson Valley communities that have lacked a dedicated publication.

The financial strain of starting a news outlet is immense. Unlike other news publications in the mid-Hudson Valley area, The Ridgeline is independent. We are not backed by New York City investors, mainstream media moguls or Wall Street businesses. We will be relying on the dedication of our staff, all Hudson Valley locals, and the support of our readership. This is why we need your help.

We’re asking for $500 to help offset our web hosting costs and additional business expenses as we work to write and publish quality stories that give a voice to these underserved communities. Your donation will directly support the official launch of our paper and create more opportunities for community connection right in Ulster County.