A Long Beach low-power FM is turning to the Los Angeles Harbor community it represents for support after its transmitter was destroyed after being sent away for repairs. KLBP has organized a GoFundMe with a target of $6,600 to acquire a new transmitter.
The former transmitter was damaged to the point of total loss while being shipped back from repairs, leaving the station off the air. KLBP emphasizes that all donations will be directly used to purchase the transmitter. As of March 31, the page has raised $1,881 from 36 donors.
Operating independently since 2018 with a dedicated team of volunteers, KLBP serves as a local platform for independent voices in Long Beach, which staff indicate is especially crucial during an election year. The station emphasizes its commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering community spirit through programming that ranges from indie music to discussions on local news.
Despite the current operational challenges, KLBP continues to stream online.
On the fundraiser page, KLBP staff say, “From the beginning, Our mission at KLBP has been unwavering over the air or on the internet stream: in amplifying the voices of the marginalized, and to foster a sense of belonging and solidarity among our listeners. Your donation will allow those voices to be heard again on 99.1 FM in Long Beach.”
