Jennifer Cook, Executive Director of WUCF, issued the following statement in response to Congress’ vote to approve a rescissions package eliminating $1.1 billion in federal funding for public media stations nationwide:
“This is a difficult day for WUCF and for public media across America. The loss of federal funding, on top of the recent elimination of state support, will have real and lasting consequences for the communities we serve. For WUCF, the loss of federal funding means nearly $2 million annually in support is gone—funding that directly fuels our ability to provide vital educational programming, trusted emergency alerts and local stories that preserve Central Florida’s history and culture.
Despite this significant challenge, we believe in the transformative power of public media, whether it's helping a child learn to read, sharing the untold stories of our region, or delivering life-saving information during hurricanes and emergencies.We may be facing new obstacles, but our commitment to Central Florida is stronger than ever. ‘We Change Lives,’ and we will continue to do so, every day.
Now, more than ever, we need the support of our Central Florida community to sustain the programming and services people rely on every day. We invite those who believe in our work to consider making a donation to help keep WUCF strong and accessible for everyone.”
WUCF will continue exploring all options to minimize the impact of these funding cuts and ensure essential services remain available to Central Florida.
Community members can support WUCF by donating at wucf.org/donate.
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About WUCF: WUCF serves as the region's trusted source for educational programming, arts, culture and local storytelling. As Central Florida's only PBS affiliate and home for jazz, WUCF offers free, accessible content that enriches lives, fosters curiosity and strengthens the community. Guided by the mission "We Change Lives," WUCF is committed to connecting, inspiring and empowering audiences across all platforms. To explore WUCF's impact and programming, visit www.wucf.org.