Supporting Safe and Responsible Reporting Across Chicagoland
Why This Fund Matters
The Chicago Headline Club Foundation has launched the Essential Equipment Fund to help independent and freelance journalists report safely and effectively on issues in the public interest throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
This fund provides limited financial assistance — up to $500 per person per year — to reimburse or directly pay for essential gear and field tools used while covering protests, demonstrations and other public events.
By helping independent reporters obtain the protective tools they need, the foundation and our donors are working to safeguard both journalistic freedom and the public’s right to know.
Purpose
The fund advances CHC Foundation’s mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization by supporting the safety, effectiveness and ethical practice of journalism. It ensures journalists can cover critical public events responsibly—promoting informed public discourse and access to accurate newsgathering.
Who Can Apply
This fund is open to:
- Independent and freelance journalists, photojournalists, or documentarians regularly reporting on public interest issues in the Chicago metro area.
- Applicants who can demonstrate a record of journalistic work (e.g., published stories, portfolio links, or editor verification).
- Those who certify that equipment funded through this grant will be used exclusively for journalistic purposes, serving the public interest.
Not eligible: Current CHCF board members, officers, or employees.
Priority consideration will be given to journalists:
- Covering protests, demonstrations or other high-risk civic events.
- With a strong record of civic reporting that informs the public.
What the Fund Covers
Eligible items include:
✅ Safety gear — respirators, goggles, helmets, vests, visibility gear
✅ Press identification and reflective markings
✅ Field accessories — battery packs, power or phone protection, waterproofing
✅ Repair or replacement of damaged protective gear
Not eligible: Cameras, drones, computers, travel costs, food, lodging, stipends, or equipment purchased before Oct. 1, 2025.
Funding Details
- Maximum award: $500 per journalist per calendar year
- Initial fundraising goal: $5,000
- Awards may be reimbursed (with receipts) or paid directly to vendors for verified purchases.
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.
How to Apply
To apply, submit:
- A completed Equipment Fund Application Form, available here.
- Proof of journalistic activity — such as published work or editor verification.
- A short description of reporting assignments requiring safety or field equipment.
- An itemized list of requested items (with receipts if seeking reimbursement).
- A brief statement (up to 250 words) explaining how the equipment supports your reporting in the public interest.
Review timeline:
- Committee review within 10 business days of submission.
- Disbursement within 15 business days of approval.
Applications are reviewed by a three-member Review Committee consisting of:
- One CHC Foundation Board member
- One working journalist
- One community or safety advisor
Transparency and Oversight
The Essential Equipment Fund operates under CHC Foundation’s nonprofit governance and reporting requirements.
- All disbursements are documented in compliance with IRS 501(c)(3) and Illinois charitable trust regulations.
- CHCF publishes aggregate summaries (not individual names) in its annual report and IRS Form 990.
- Recipient names remain confidential unless voluntary consent is given for acknowledgment.
Support the Fund
Our initial fundraising goal is $5,000.
You can help sustain this important initiative by donating through:
- Public donations via Paypal or Zelle [payments to CHC Foundation via headlineclubtreasurer [at] gmail [dot] com]
- Foundation and partner grants
- Event-based and year-end giving campaigns
Every contribution helps ensure that independent journalists can continue doing the essential work of informing the public — safely, accurately, and without fear.
Contribute to the Fund
Learn More
📄 Apply here: Application Form
💛 Donate to support the fund:
