Jennifer Holmes is president, chief operating officer and treasurer of the Bangor Daily News. She has been with the newspaper for 31 years and previously served as vice president and treasurer.
Since stepping into the role of president in September, I’ve been reminded of both the importance of local journalism and the financial challenges required to sustain it.
While the economics of news remain difficult, the value of a strong local newspaper — to an informed, connected and engaged community — has never been clearer.
Strong local journalism helps communities function and flourish.
It keeps residents informed about decisions that affect their daily lives, holds public institutions accountable and creates a shared understanding of what is happening in our towns and across Maine. It also gives voice to local stories and to people who might otherwise go unheard — reminding us that when we stay informed and engaged, we can support one another and strengthen the fabric of our communities.
Beyond reporting the news, journalism has the power to move awareness into action.
During our recent Giving Tuesday campaign, we partnered with area banks to raise funds for emergency heating assistance through Maine Community Action Partnership. After seeing the campaign, a generous donor asked us to connect them with MeCAP. What began as support for 15 families has grown into assistance for more than 300 families across our state — at a time when heating costs are up and federal support for heating assistance is down.
Efforts like this demonstrate how local journalism not only informs, but also connects people, resources and ideas — helping neighbors take meaningful action together.
We are grateful to our readers for supporting local journalism and for recognizing the essential role it plays in strengthening our communities. Your continued support — whether by reading, engaging or giving — helps make this work possible.
If you are in a position to do so, please consider an end-of-year gift to The Fund for BDN Reporting at donate.bangordailynews.com in honor of local journalism inspiring action.
From all of us at the BDN, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season.