You might have already noticed that just about every channel on your television was covering a special relief telethon earlier tonight for those affected by all the hurricanes around the country. The live telethon, titled Hand In Hand, featured some of the biggest celebrities & artists all coming together for a bigger cause. Of those celebrities present to help answer phones calls and donations were the likes of DJ Khaled, Nicki Minaj, Travis Scott, Vic Mensa, Leonardo DiCaprio, George Clooney, Justin Timberlake, Oprah, Justin Bieber, and many more, while Drake & Beyonce called in with some pre-recorded messages.
The fundraiser was originally designed to help victims of Hurricane Harvey, but organizers Scooter Braun and Bun B decided that Tuesday night’s efforts will also benefit those who were affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in Florida. The event reportedly raised over $14 million.
The event also saw some moving performances from Stevie Wonder, Usher, Luis Fonsi, Tori Kelly, and Dave Matthews.
While Beyonce and Drake didn't appear to be present for the telethon, each superstar did take some time out to send a special message. Beyonce said:
“Natural disasters don't discriminate. They don't see if you're an immigrant, black or white, Hispanic or Asian, Jewish or Muslim, wealthy or poor," she said. "[...] Seeing everyone of different racial, social, and religious backgrounds put their own lives at risk to help each other survive restored my faith in humanity. True healing is in helping. Please, give what you can.”
Whereas Drake later also shared some wise words during the telethon. "With so much happening in the world, it's truly amazing to see our generation be conscious and aware. It's even more amazing to see us come together to help as best we can," he said. "These days it seems as if one issue is ending, another is beginning, and I know it can be extremely overwhelming, but your attention and your assistance is of extreme importance. On some days it will be about speaking up. On other days it will be about stepping up. And in today's case, we're asking that you give. Give whatever you can to help people just like you rebuild their families and their homes and get back to life as they once knew it.”
Check out a couple highlights from the telethon (below) and if you wish to donate to the cause yourself, y’all can do so by calling 1-800-258-6000 or donating $25 by texting “GIVE” to 80077. Learn more about the fundraiser at www.HandInHand2017.com.
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