PEN America Writers Emergency Fund

Supporting writers in dire need

Poetry Reading at the Union Square Market

The PEN America Writers Emergency Fund supports writers in dire need in the U.S. and worldwide. The U.S. Writers Aid Initiative provides direct financial support to writers facing economic hardships in the U.S.; and the Writers at Risk Program shines a spotlight on the plight of writers globally, providing behind-the-scenes assistance and advocacy support for writers facing persecution.

Notebook Pen Writing On Table Unsplash

U.S. Writers Aid Initiative

The U.S. Writers Aid Initiative provides direct cash assistance to fiction and non-fiction authors, poets, playwrights, screenwriters, translators, and journalists facing short-term emergencies or acute financial need. Only U.S. residents are eligible. 

Unsplash Prison Gate

Writers at Risk

PEN America and its Members advocate on behalf of writers at risk globally, rallying to their defense and promoting the freedom to write through direct support, advocacy, and behind-the-scenes assistance. PEN America also tracks detained writers in its annual Freedom to Write Index, and catalogues historic cases in the Writers at Risk Database.

Support the Writers Emergency Fund

PEN America relies on its network of Members and friends to support the Writers Emergency Fund. Your gift supports our work advocating in the U.S. and worldwide for the freedom to write.