We are a group of Canadian journalists who are looking to offer some support and love to Trent Ernst, the local reporter who was first to respond to the tragic mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.

Trent is the publisher of Tumbler RidgeLines , a local news outlet dedicated to providing community news and stories about Tumbler Ridge, by and for the people of Tumbler Ridge.

Since the shooting took place, he has stopped writing. Instead, he is voluntarily driving residents to medical appointments, buying them groceries and offering support through emotional Facebook Live posts.

Local journalism is vital for communities like Tumbler Ridge, who rely on the Trent Ernst's of the world to keep them informed of the good and, if needed (and we wish it wasn't needed), the bad.

Canadian media has relied on Trent Ernst this past week to inform us of the impacts of one the deadliest shootings in the country's history. We hope we can offer him some respite and support through this fundraiser. Everything raised will go to Trent.