R.I.P. Pittsburgh City Paper, 1991-2025.
After over three decades, Block Communications, Inc. decided to fold Pittsburgh's alt weekly. Cuts began in October with the layoff of sales and graphic design staff and cessation of weekly print issues. Then, on New Year's Eve, BCI surprised those of us who remained by laying us off and announcing the end of publication, effective immediately.
Some former employees had been with City Paper for many years. The layoffs also included several single moms and recent grads. Everyone affected was invested in CP's past, present, and future and relied on the paper for steady income.
This GoFundMe will be used to ease the burden on former CP staff and help secure the paper's legacy.
- The first $500 will go toward defraying entry fees for the 2025 awards cycle. CP has a rich history of winning Golden Quills, Keystones, and AAN awards — help us go out with a bang!
- Additional funds will be split equally among 14 unemployed staff members. This will offset the loss of income and health insurance, childcare costs, and other burdens.
- If this fundraiser exceeds its goal, any further proceeds will be split among staff, prorated as necessary should some former employees secure work sooner than others.
Pittsburgh media can't exist without the people who report, edit, design, and market it. Help get us back on our feet and continue doing this important work!