MercerMe has launched a weeklong “50 in 7” campaign to welcome 50 new ongoing supporters, an effort aimed at sustaining the newsroom’s expanded coverage of local government, schools, and community issues across Hopewell Valley.
Ongoing supporters contribute monthly or yearly to sustain MercerMe’s reporting. MercerMe does not use a subscription model or paywall; all news remains free for the community.
The initiative comes at a time of significant growth for the hyperlocal digital outlet, which recently hired its first full-time editor. With Editor Seth Siditsky onboard, MercerMe has increased the pace and depth of its reporting, including more timely coverage of meetings, hearings, and breaking news, as well as expanded context on local decisions affecting residents.
Publisher Mary Galioto said the increased reporting capacity meets a growing community need. “People rely on MercerMe to understand what is happening in their town,” Galioto said. “They come to us for clear reporting that reflects the daily life of Hopewell Valley.”
MercerMe operates without a paywall and has no corporate ownership. Instead, the newsroom is supported by contributions from community members who value independent local reporting. Those contributions help fund reporting hours, cover public meetings, and maintain daily coverage at a level that keeps pace with the region’s civic activity.
Residents say the model reflects the value MercerMe brings to civic life in Hopewell Valley. “Not only do I appreciate your objective journalism, but I recommend MercerMe to friends who want reliable news on local policy,” said Hopewell Valley resident Darryl Greer.
Others point to the importance of timely, accurate reporting. “I feel so much better informed about everything happening in our community,” said Titusville resident and fellow journalist Molly Petrilla. “I’m impressed by how quickly you turn around accurate, highly readable stories — especially from multi-hour board and council meetings.”
Readers can learn more about the campaign at mercerme.com/support-my-mercerme.
