Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star, has once again stepped up to support communities in need by donating $1 million to aid those affected by Hurricane Helene. Her announcement came during a press conference held in the parking lot of a Newport, Tennessee Walmart, where she emphasized that the money would come directly from her personal finances. Additionally, her Dollywood companies, including Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, and the Dollywood Foundation, will contribute another $1 million, making it a substantial $2 million donation towards relief efforts.
This generous act is not unfamiliar to Parton, who has a history of philanthropy. Recalling the devastating fires in her home region, she mentioned, “Everybody pitched in, tried to do everything that they could, and so I really think that this is a time for me to step up again.” Her empathy towards the affected areas is deeply personal, as she described them as “my mountains,” “my valleys,” and “my rivers.”
Eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina, southwestern Virginia, Georgia, and Florida bore the brunt of Hurricane Helene’s destruction. In the hurricane’s devastating aftermath, over 200 people have lost their lives, with thousands still unaccounted for, according to NBC News.
Parton’s commitment to helping those in need is further demonstrated by her efforts to explore more fundraising avenues. She stated, “There’s a lot to be done and we’re trying to find other ways to even raise more funds.” Her involvement with her business partners and organizations showcases her dedication to making a substantial impact on the recovery process.
Communities across the Southeast are grappling with the aftermath of the hurricane, and Parton’s contribution is a beacon of hope for many. Her actions serve as a reminder of the power of coming together to support one another in times of crisis. As recovery efforts continue, the generosity of individuals like Dolly Parton will play a pivotal role in helping rebuild and restore the affected areas.