The rapid spread of COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, across the U.S has left many Americans disfranchised with over 3.3 million people filing unemployment claims within the first week. The need for aid to Americans affected by coronavirus is only likely to rise as another record 6.6 million people filed for unemployment benefits last week according to the U.S Department of Labor. Many celebrities have decided to step up their efforts by contributing massive donations through charity partnerships to reach those in need.
Oprah Winfrey announced she would be pledging $1 million to America’s Food Fund, a charity co-founded by actor Leonardo DiCaprio and philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs. The fund was launched today and has already raised $12 million from other high profile donors.
“With millions losing their jobs and programs like school lunches in jeopardy, making sure people aren’t going hungry is of the utmost urgency,” Powell Jobs told the AP.
In addition to her pledge, Winfrey also mentioned that she is giving directly to the cause through her own foundation and committing $10 million to aid people in various ways nationwide who are dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.