Chicago Community Trust ends funding for 'Chicago Matters'

Citing the economic squeeze that has both reduced its assets and created greater funding needs elsewhere, the Chicago Community Trust said Thursday it is ending its support for the multimedia "Chicago Matters" program after 19 years. The series has coordinated efforts by public television's WTTW-Ch. 11, Chicago Public Radio, the Chicago Public Library and the Chicago Reporter monthly to annually spotlight a major regional issue since 1990. The Trust said in a statement that the recession has forced it to reassess its strategic funding priorities and it has "redirected $2.7 million towards basic human needs" and end the "Chicago Matters" program at the end of the year.