Media – Connecting with Newspapers
You probably know which newspapers serve your local community.
You may even know newspaper reporters or the local newspaper editor.
But if you don’t, ask around. Or check these online sources for information:
Then, decide which strategy you’re going to use to get the message across.
1) Sending a letter to the editor
Letters to the editor are among the most read sections of many newspapers – by both local people and local politicians.
And newspaper editors use them to help understand what people in the community are talking about and what they think about the issues of the day. This helps editors decide what kinds of stories deserve coverage. So use our tips to send a letter!
2) Writing an op-ed and getting it published
An “op-ed” is an opinion piece published in the newspaper on the page that’s opposite the editorials. Getting one published can get people in your community talking – which gets the message out. So use our tips to get one written and published.
3) Getting reporters to cover your story
Reporters are always looking for interesting stories that are topical and timely, that affect people in their local community, and that people can speak to from their own experience.
Your expertise as a recipient of social assistance – or an activist, agency staff person, or supporter of a recipient – makes you a great source for a story.
