Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have teamed up to create a lifeline for the victims of the Maui wildfires. With a whopping $10 million fund, the duo aims to provide direct financial assistance to displaced residents. The initiative, inspired by Dolly Parton’s similar effort, promises to be a game-changer in disaster relief.
By Joseph Gutierrez
The People’s Fund of Maui: A Ray of Hope
Oprah and Dwayne Johnson announced on September 1, 2023, a $10 million fund to help the victims of the Maui wildfires. Named “The People’s Fund of Maui,” the initiative will provide $1,200 a month to adults who can’t return to their primary residences due to the fires. The fund is also open to donations to extend its support duration.
Inspired by Dolly Parton’s Philanthropy
The idea for the fund came from a similar initiative by Dolly Parton in 2016, which helped victims of wildfires in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Jeff Conyers, president of The Dollywood Foundation, consulted with Winfrey’s team to share lessons learned from administering a fund that granted $11 million to families who lost their homes.
The Criteria for Aid: What You Need to Know
To qualify for the People’s Fund of Maui, applicants must show a government ID and a utility bill in their name for a lost or uninhabitable residence. The fund aims to be as inclusive as possible, covering both homeowners and renters affected by the wildfires.
The Bigger Picture: Community and Celebrity Involvement
Oprah and Johnson consulted with community elders, leaders, and residents to ensure the fund meets the needs of the local population. The Entertainment Industry Foundation, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, is sponsoring the fund. Both celebrities hope the fund will continue to make transfers for at least six months, depending on public support and donations.
Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson’s $10 million fund is a beacon of hope for the victims of the Maui wildfires. By providing direct financial assistance, they are setting a new standard for celebrity philanthropy. The fund not only aims to provide immediate relief but also to empower the community in the long term. It’s now up to the American public to extend this lifeline by contributing to the fund.