Since the start of the COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, pandemic, celebrities and the wealthy elite have been coming together with nonprofit partnerships and their own organizations to help those impacted by the public health crisis. Beyoncé is one of the many known names who has stepped up her charitable efforts to offer relief during a difficult time.
It was announced this week that Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is working with her nonprofit organization, BeyGOOD, for a new initiative aimed at lending a helping hand to those on the front lines to make sure they receive the essentials while saving our nation’s most vulnerable communities during the public health crisis.
“Beyoncé’s BeyGOOD recognizes the immense mental and personal health burdens being placed on essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic,” a rep for the singer said in a statement. “In our major cities, African Americans comprise a disproportionate number of workers in these indispensable occupations, and they will need mental health support and personal wellness care, including testing and medical services, food supplies and food deliveries, both during and after the crisis.”
Beyoncé’s organization has also partnered with Twitter founder Jack Dorsey’s Start Small effort and UCLA to provide $6 million to fund organizations offering physical and mental health services along with food assistance. The initiative will also be collaborating with the National Alliance in Mental Illness to provide help in cities with large black populations that are being affected by the coronavirus, such as Houston, New York City, New Orleans, and Detroit.
In addition to her own initiative, Beyoncé participated in ABC’s The Disney Family Singalong, where she surprised fans by singing “When You Wish Upon a Star” from the 1940 animated film Pinocchio. She dedicated her performance “to all of the healthcare workers who’ve been working tirelessly to keep us healthy and safe.”
She recently shared a new video discussing the virus’ effects on the African American community with Global Citizen.