Dolly Parton announced on her Facebook page last night (Nov. 30) that she will be helping out the victims of the wildfires that have been blazing across Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tenn., near her hometown.
While the wildfires have come close to Dollywood Theme Park, no structural damage has occurred as of today (Dec. 1). Many buildings, including homes and apartment complexes have burned. Evacuations were ordered at the Dollywood DreamMore Resort along with Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Park Vista and Ski Mountain.
As a show of support, Dolly issued a statement Wednesday (Nov. 30) about the fires.
“I have been watching the terrible fires in the Great Smoky Mountains and I am heartbroken. I am praying for all the families affected by the fire and the firefighters who are working so hard to keep everyone safe. It is a blessing that my Dollywood theme park, the DreamMore Resort and so many businesses in Pigeon Forge have been spared.”
Taking it one step further later in the evening, the superstar with a big heart offered to have her Dollywood companies and the Dollywood Foundation help establish My People’s Fund. The foundation will provide $1,000 a month to all the families that have lost their homes in the fires, until they get back on their feet.
Dolly posted a video on Facebook with information on how to join the effort.
“I have always believed that charity begins at home. As a result, the Dollywood Company and the Dollywood Foundation are helping to establish the My People Fund to provide a hand up to those families who have lost everything in the Smoky Mountain fires.” To join these efforts please visit DollywoodFoundation.org #MyPeopleFund #SomePlaceSpecial”
Watch the video for Dolly’s message:
