PBS, NPR stations scramble after federal funding cuts

Congress cut $1.1 billion in federal funding for public broadcasting this summer, leaving 330 PBS and 246 NPR stations scrambling to fill budget gaps.

In Spokane, Washington, PBS affiliate KSPS lost nearly half its Canadian donors, frustrated by President Donald Trump’s push to make Canada the 51st US state.

The station now faces a $1.2 million shortfall—18% of its budget—and has turned to listeners for urgent help.

Across the country, stations are launching emergency fund drives with mixed success.

Hawaii Public Radio raised $650,000, exceeding its $525,000 loss, while Wilmington’s WHQR brought in $200,000 in three days.

PBS President Paula Kerger said the network is reducing annual dues stations pay for programming by an average of 15% and forgiving more for the hardest-hit stations.

Still, job cuts and program reductions have already begun, and leaders warn some smaller stations may not survive without ongoing support.