Dear Parents and Caregivers,
If you’ve ever watched a child light up while learning with “Sesame Street” or “Daniel Tiger,” or if your household depends on PBS KIDS as a safe, educational space — then you already know the value of public media.
At WXXI, we see it every day: families turning to us for trusted, commercial-free programming that supports learning, literacy, and emotional growth. What you may not see is that the future of this work is under real threat.
Right now, there are efforts underway in Congress to eliminate federal funding for public media — funding that makes WXXI’s children’s programming possible, especially for families who can’t afford streaming subscriptions or private alternatives.
I joined WXXI to strengthen our role as a resource for families like yours. As a public media leader who has long focused on equity and access, I believe every child — regardless of zip code — deserves high-quality educational media. But we can’t continue to provide it without your help.
If WXXI has made a difference in your child’s life, I’m asking you to:
• Contact your elected representatives and tell them public media matters.
• Spread the word about what WXXI means to you. Share your story with us here, or share it on social media using #protectWXXI.
• And if you’re able, make a contribution to help sustain our work here in this region.
Your support protects the programming that helps children grow — not just smarter, but kinder and more curious about the world around them.
With deep thanks,
Chris Hastings
President & CEO
WXXI Public Media