Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction across North Carolina, South Carolina, east Tennessee, and Georgia.
FOX Weather has confirmed that the catastrophic flooding has claimed at least 230 lives across six states, with the death toll expected to rise as search and rescue efforts continue. Hundreds remain missing, and many areas are still without power or basic supplies.
We have seen many country artists, including Miranda Lambert, Morgan Wallen, Eric Church, Luke Combs, and more, step up during this devastating time to donate in various ways. And now, the queen herself, Dolly Parton, is giving back in a huge way.
Dolly Parton’s Generous Donation
During a press conference at Walmart in Newport, Tennessee, on Friday (October 4), Dolly Parton announced her substantial contribution to the relief efforts.
“I’m happy to be here,” Parton said as she walked onto the stage. “And I’m sure a lot of you are wondering where I’ve been. Everybody’s saying, ‘Where’s Dolly?’ Well, I’ve been like everybody else, trying to absorb everything going on, trying to figure out all the best ways to do this.”
The country music icon then told the crowd that she is donating $1 million from her personal funds and an additional $1 million from her business ventures, including Dollywood.
“I really really wish that we were all together for another reason, but we all have seen the devastation. I mean, who knew in our little part of the country here where I was born and raised just right down the road that we would have this kind of devastation?”
Dolly is here! She just announced at the Newport Walmart she will be donating $1 million to help flood victims from Helene that will be matched by another $1 million. Live: https://t.co/1QnxA8cP7v pic.twitter.com/pKAmu1QmUr
— WBIR Channel 10 (@wbir) October 4, 2024
Parton recalled how her own community in Sevier County, Tennessee, was hit hard by wildfires a few years ago. She remembered the outpouring of support they received and expressed her desire to pay it forward now that her people are in need once again.
Parton assured that she will direct the funds to the right people and places, though she hasn’t yet announced the specific recipient organizations.
“I just want you to know that I am totally with you because I am part of you. I love you…I’m just happy to be here to try to help out,” Parton ended her speech.
Watch Dolly Parton’s full speech at the press conference below.