In the wake of the devastating Hurricane Helene, which tore through six U.S. states and left over 200 people dead, country music legend Dolly Parton has once again stepped up to make a difference. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has pledged $1 million to aid the relief efforts in her home state of Tennessee and other affected areas, demonstrating her deep-rooted connection to the people of Appalachia.
Personal Connection to the People
During a press conference in Newport, Tennessee, Parton expressed her heartfelt commitment to the region and its residents, many of whom have been severely impacted by the flooding caused by the hurricane. “These are special people here; they’re my people,” Parton said. “I feel like all people are my people, but everyone here grew up in the mountains just like I did, so of course, I have a close connection to them.”
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Parton, who was born in the rural Appalachia region of Locust Ridge, Tennessee, often reflects on her upbringing in her music. Songs like “My Tennessee Mountain Home” and “Smoky Mountain Memories” speak to the deep ties she feels to her community. The singer’s emotional attachment was evident as she addressed the crowd, saying, “It was devastating, not just because it was my family, but because all these people feel like my people.”
Partnering with Walmart for a Greater Impact
Parton’s donation will be directed to the Mountain Ways Foundation, a nonprofit focused on providing immediate assistance to victims of the hurricane. In addition to her personal contribution, several of her businesses, including Dollywood Parks & Resorts and The Dollywood Foundation, have pledged to match her $1 million donation, amplifying the support provided to the region.
Dolly was joined by Walmart U.S. President and CEO John Furner at the event, where he announced that Walmart, Sam’s Club, and the Walmart Foundation would increase their donations to $10 million for relief efforts across the affected states. Speaking about the company’s increased commitment, Furner praised Parton for her continued leadership in charitable efforts and encouraged others to follow her example.
“This is a time for me to step up again, for all of us to step up and do what we can,” Parton said, urging everyone to contribute in whatever way possible.
Call for Others to Join in
As the country icon called on people to donate, she emphasized the need for unity during difficult times. “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 they are experiencing,” she said, encouraging others to join in relief efforts.
Her words were not only meant to inspire the locals in Tennessee, but also those across the country who were watching the aftermath of the hurricane unfold. Parton’s efforts in times of crisis have consistently motivated others to help those in need, whether through donations or by offering a helping hand.
Deadliest Storm Since Katrina
Hurricane Helene has been the deadliest storm to hit the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Officials report that at least 225 people have lost their lives, and the death toll is expected to rise as rescue and recovery efforts continue. Large areas of North Carolina and other southeastern states have been devastated, with recovery costs estimated to reach billions of dollars.
As relief efforts ramp up, donations from influential figures like Parton and large corporations like Walmart are critical in helping communities rebuild and recover from the disaster. The combined contributions will provide immediate aid, while also inspiring a wave of generosity across the country.
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This is not the first time Dolly Parton has come forward in times of need. Known for her philanthropy, she has a long history of supporting her community. In 2016, following the wildfires that ravaged Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Parton launched the My People Fund, which provided financial assistance to those who lost their homes.