The Weeknd is the latest celebrity to help out the city of Los Angeles after the devastating and tragic wildfires that destroyed much of Pacific Palisades and Altadena. The global superstar and award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer has donated $1 million dollars to the Los Angeles County Fire Department Foundation, GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund, and LA Regional Food Bank to help those displaced residents stay well fed amidst the terrible ordeal. The money will also go to support those first responders who are on the front lines battling these flames.
“The city has always been a profound source of inspiration for me, and my thoughts are with everyone impacted during this difficult time,” the artist said. “My focus remains on supporting the recovery of these communities and aiding its incredible people as they rebuild.”
It wouldn’t be the first time that The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, has used his success to help out a good cause. In 2014, he donated $50,000 to the University of Toronto to fund a course on the native language of Ethiopia. That was a cause close to the heart, as he is the only child of two Ethiopian immigrants. He also grew up in Toronto so it’s a perfect charitable blend of two tenets of his early upbringing.
While The Weeknd may sell out arenas worldwide and have accolades upon accolades, it is his philanthropic work that really resonates with fans and also is a big source of pride for the pop star. He canceled his show at the Rose Bowl scheduled for Jan 25 due to the Pasadena fires, and delayed the release of his LP out of respect for the tragedy that has affected so many people.
Estimates are still being made but early projections state that the cost of rebuilding and reconstructing much of the damage could go as high as two or three hundred billion dollars. Needless to say, every dollar counts when it comes to the LA wildfires. The Weeknd’s generosity will go a long way to helping out the countless lives impacted by the devastating flames. The Weeknd may be known for his silky voice and catchy music, but fans should know that his philanthropic spirit runs deep.