A country music icon takes center stage in the wake of a devastating natural disaster, offering more than just her voice to those in need.
Breitbart News reported that Dolly Parton announced a $1 million personal donation and an additional $1 million from her businesses to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
During a press conference held on Friday in the parking lot of a Walmart in Newport, Tennessee, Parton expressed her commitment to helping the communities impacted by the hurricane. The event, which included a remixed performance of her hit song "Jolene," served as a platform for Parton to announce her generous contribution and call for further support.
Parton emphasized that the initial $1 million would come directly from her "own bank account." This personal touch underscores her dedication to the cause and her connection to the affected regions.
The country music legend drew parallels to previous natural disasters, recalling the community's response to wildfires in the area. She stated that this is another opportunity for everyone to step up and provide assistance.
Parton's companies, including the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Dolly Parton's Stampede, and the Dollywood Foundation, will contribute an additional $1 million to the relief efforts, bringing the total donation to $2 million.
The hurricane's destructive path has left a lasting impact on several states in the southeastern United States. Parton highlighted the extensive damage in eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina, southwestern Virginia, Georgia, and Florida.
During the press conference, Parton reflected on the unexpected nature of the disaster, particularly in her home region. She expressed her deep connection to the affected areas, referring to them as "my mountains," "my valleys," and "my rivers."
The singer's emotional statement resonates with many who have witnessed the devastation firsthand:
Who knew in our little part of the country here — where I was born and raised right down the road — that we would have this kind of devastation. I look around and I think, these are my mountains. These are my valleys. These are my rivers, lowing like a stream. These are my people.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has been severe, with NBC News reporting over 200 confirmed deaths and thousands still missing. The search for survivors and victims continues, with local authorities working tirelessly to account for all residents.
In Asheville, North Carolina, one of the hardest-hit areas, Police Chief Sean Aardema reported that the city is currently investigating 75 cases of missing persons. The flooding in western North Carolina has been particularly devastating, leaving many communities in need of immediate assistance and long-term support.
Parton acknowledged the extensive work that lies ahead, stating that there is "a lot to be done" and expressing her desire to find additional ways to raise more funds for the relief efforts.
Dolly Parton's announcement of a $2 million donation for Hurricane Helene relief efforts demonstrates her commitment to supporting affected communities in the southeastern United States. Her personal contribution of $1 million, combined with an additional $1 million from her business ventures, aims to provide crucial assistance to those impacted by the disaster. The devastating hurricane has left over 200 dead and thousands missing, highlighting the urgent need for support and recovery efforts in the region.
