A MOMENT OF URGENCY FOR WHRO

Federal Cuts Threaten Local Services—But Our Mission Remains Strong

The rescissions bill recently approved by Congress and signed into law includes sweeping cuts to federal funding for public media. While national headlines may mention NPR or PBS, the truth is: the deepest impact will be right here at home.

These cuts hit local stations like WHRO the hardest, threatening the very services that no one else in our region provides—from emergency alerts to educational programs to local journalism.

WHRO was created to serve Eastern Virginia. Our name—Home Room One—was inspired by our mission to bring learning into homes and classrooms. Today, we remain the only public media station in the country owned by a collaboration of 21 local public school divisions.

This funding loss will force us to reduce or eliminate the very programs that define WHRO’s value: local education, emergency communications, and community storytelling.

WHAT'S AT RISK

This is not about national programming. It’s about the local services WHRO provides—services no one else in our region delivers:

Emergency alert systems that reach rural and underserved areas, particularly on the Eastern Shore where broadband is limited

Free educational programming for children and students, including WHRO KIDS, Ms. Martha Reads, and 30+ online high school courses

Local cultural programming, including a 24-hour classical music station and coverage of regional music and arts

In-person learning services like STEM and literacy outreach in our schools

Student enrichment through the Great Computer Challenge and TowneBank Spelling Bee

The Voice, an audio service for individuals who are blind or visually impaired

Local journalism and public affairs programming that addresses military life, veteran issues, and community priorities—including initiatives like the Wall of Faces honoring Vietnam veterans

83% of voters, including 70% of those who voted for President Trump, support continued federal funding for public television according to a recent survey. The value of public media is recognized across the political spectrum.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Be a Champion for WHRO

- Become a WHRO member—Your contribution directly supports local programs, education, and community services.

- Share WHRO's story with friends, neighbors, and on social media

- Be an advocate: Raise your voice to show support for the local services public media provides