Dolly Parton has reaffirmed her dedication to helping communities hurt by Hurricane Helene by donating a total of $2 million for relief efforts. This includes a personal donation of $1 million and an additional $1 million contributed by her businesses, including Dollywood and The Dollywood Foundation. Parton, who was born and raised in East Tennessee, expressed a deep emotional connection to those affected. During a recent press event in Newport, she stated, “These are my people,” highlighting her personal ties to the region and desire to support her community during this crisis.
Parton’s collaboration with Walmart significantly enhances her relief initiatives. Walmart’s U.S. CEO, John Furner, joined her in announcing that the company will contribute a total of $10 million to aid recovery efforts. As Parton emphasized, community support is crucial: “I hope we can all be a little bit of light in the world for our friends, our neighbors — even strangers — during this dark time.”
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Overview of Hurricane Helene’s Impact
Hurricane Helene made landfall earlier this month, leading to catastrophic flooding in East Tennessee and surrounding Appalachian regions. The storm has been described as one of the most severe weather events to hit the U.S., with reports confirming over 225 fatalities to date. The devastation includes widespread property damage and destruction, leaving numerous families displaced and in desperate need of assistance.
Emergency services are struggling to reach some areas due to road closures and infrastructure damage. The effects have been felt deeply by local residents, especially in rural and mountainous regions that bear a close connection to Parton. Her call for donations resonates with many who witnessed the heartbreak caused by the natural disaster.
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Details of Donations from Dolly and Dollywood
The financial commitment from Dolly Parton and her Dollywood companies is a significant step toward recovery. The total contribution of $2 million is earmarked for the Mountain Ways Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing immediate assistance to victims of Hurricane Helene. The foundation aims to distribute resources efficiently and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.
In addition to the monetary donations, Dollywood has engaged in various initiatives to support recovery efforts. The theme park has donated substantial resources, including bottled water and protective equipment, to assist in cleanup efforts across impacted communities.
Notably, Dollywood will also serve as a donation center for the public wishing to contribute supplies and resources.
Related: Dollywood Issues Warning to All Guests After Hurricane Helene
Broader Community Responses and Initiatives
The local response to Hurricane Helene’s devastation has been commendable. Walmart, alongside Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation, pledged to elevate their relief commitment to $10 million, demonstrating solidarity with Parton’s efforts. Plans have been implemented to match customer donations 1:1, providing both financial and logistical support to relief organizations.
Various community groups and local businesses are rallying to aid recovery initiatives. This cooperative effort highlights the resilience and unity of the Appalachian community as local artists and public figures join the cause in assisting affected residents.
Overall, the combined response from Dolly Parton, Dollywood, Walmart, and the larger community reflects an inspiring commitment to alleviating the hardships individuals and families affected by Hurricane Helene face. Ongoing collaboration and support will be crucial for the region’s recovery and rebuilding efforts.
If you want to join Dolly Parton in helping support relief and recovery efforts in East Tennessee, Western North Carolina & the greater Appalachian region, you can click here to learn more about the Mountain Ways Foundation’s mission and donate to support their cause.