Dolly Parton Pledges Support Following Hurricane Helene Devastation

Hurricane Helene has been identified as the deadliest mainland hurricane since Katrina, leaving widespread destruction in its path. Tennessee native Dolly Parton has stepped forward, pledging a $1 million donation to aid victims affected by this natural disaster.

“These are my mountains … these are my rivers,” Parton expressed to the community members gathered at a Walmart parking lot in Newport, Tennessee, on Friday. Addressing the crowd, she spoke about the emotional impact the hurricane had on her. “It was devastating,” Parton said. “Not just because it was my family, because all these people feel like my people. We all feel related, and we are in some sort of way. So it just devastated me, just to know that we had suffering like that. So anything we can do to help.”

Parton’s enterprises in East Tennessee – including Dollywood Parks & Resorts, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show – along with The Dollywood Foundation, are also contributing, collectively matching Parton’s $1 million donation.

In her speech, Parton emphasized the importance of rising to the occasion. “You just try to step up. God has been good to me and so has the public. And I feel like anything I can do to give back and do what I can, I’m always willing to do that,” she remarked, receiving applause from the assembled crowd.

Walmart has also made a commitment, announcing a substantial $10 million donation towards relief efforts. These contributions are intended to support organizations like the Red Cross, which are actively engaged in preparing, responding, and assisting people to recuperate from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

ABC News journalist Jianna Cousin contributed to this report. Copyright © 2024 ABC News Internet Ventures.