Tampa Bay Times raises 5,000 during weeklong fundraising campaign.

In a remarkable display of community support, the Tampa Bay Times announced that it has surpassed its fundraising goal of 5,000, reaching a total of approximately 7,000 as of 2 p.m. on Friday. The campaign, titled “It’s Your Times,” has seen participation from over 900 readers and supporters, featuring contributions that have varied widely—from to an impressive ,000.

The initiative aims to sustain the newspaper’s commitment to local journalism, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years. With this substantial amount raised, the funds will play a crucial role in supporting the salaries of three journalists within the paper’s 80-person newsroom. The ongoing financial support is essential not only for retaining skilled professionals but also for enhancing the quality and breadth of reporting that the community has come to rely on.

In acknowledging this generous response, the Tampa Bay Times extended heartfelt gratitude to the diverse group of contributors, highlighting the significance of their involvement during this week-long campaign. The outpouring of support underscores a growing recognition of the value of independent journalism, particularly at a time when accurate, local news is vital for informed citizenry.

Despite having achieved the initial fundraising milestone, the Times encourages those who have not yet contributed to consider making a donation. The organization emphasizes that the need for funding exceeds the original goal, as it seeks to bolster its journalistic efforts further. The fundraising drive is set to continue until midnight on Sunday, providing additional opportunities for community members to participate.

Every dollar contributed will be judiciously utilized to ensure that independent local journalism remains resilient and capable of meeting the needs of its readership. This initiative not only serves to offset operational costs but also demonstrates a collective commitment to preserving a robust media landscape in the Tampa Bay area.

For those interested in supporting the campaign, further details can be accessed on the dedicated campaign website. The success of this effort reflects the essential bond between the Tampa Bay Times and its community, reinforcing the notion that together, they can foster a vibrant and thriving journalistic environment.