JAY-Z and Rihanna are doing their part to aid during the pandemic.
The superstars have each donated $1 million toward COVID-19 response efforts. JAY-Z made the generous donation via his Shawn Carter Foundation, while Rihanna is giving back via her Clara Lionel Foundation.
The combined $2 million from both foundations will support undocumented workers, children of frontline healthcare workers and first responders, and incarcerated, elderly and homeless people in New York and Los Angeles.
According to Billboard, the money will also cover daycare, learning materials, food, and supplies for the children of healthcare workers and first responders. Additionally, they will provide learning materials for over 20,000 youth in shelters and virtual mental health support for parents.
“In times of crisis it is imperative that we come together as one community to ensure that everyone, especially the most vulnerable, has access to critical needs: shelter, health, nutrition, and education,” said Gloria Carter, CEO and co-founder of the Shawn Carter Foundation. “The only way to get through this pandemic is with love and action.”
Justine Lucas, executive director of the Clara Lionel Foundation, added, “There are a number of populations who are especially vulnerable during this pandemic — those who are undocumented, incarcerated, elderly and homeless, as well as children of frontline health workers and first responders. Now more than ever, we need to support organizations prioritizing the health and rights of these individuals.”
Rihanna’s Clara Lionel Foundation previously announced a $5 million donation to various organizations including Feeding America, World Health Organization, and Rihanna’s native Barbados. The relief efforts will help provide critical protective gear, medical supplies, equipment, and food across multiple regions.