Well, it’s Election Day and thank goodness – I don’t think I can take any more ads, debates, or Facebook posts.
While many people are focused on the election, much of the country’s focus is still on Hurricane Sandy’s destruction on the east coast and providing relief to those in need. While the physical storm is over, the real problems still exist and will for months, if not years to come. Some people are having trouble getting gas, some are still without electricity, many are homeless, and now that section of the country is facing a nor’easter, which could bring high winds and colder weather.
Like with other disasters, many celebrities have chipped in to offer aid to the victims. A telethon held last weekend included stars such as Christina Aguilera (born in Staten Island), Tina Fey (who owns a apartment in NYC), Bruce Springsteen (one of New Jersey’s favorite sons), Jon Bon Jovi (New Jersey’s other favorite son), Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, Kevin Bacon, Jimmy Fallon, and Billy Joel. The telethon benefited the American Red Cross and almost $23 million was raised.
Other celebrities have dug in deep to give money or help. Chef Sandra Lee has been helping prepare meals for the homeless at the Bowery Mission, where requests for meals have doubled since Hurricane Sandy.
Journalist Barbara Walters donated $250,000 to the American Red Cross. Actor Russell Crowe also donated to the relief fund. He wrote on Twitter “In honor of Seth & L.I. Coast Guard & friends on Staten Island, donated to NYC Mayors Fund and plant a million trees fund.”
Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat also tweeted, but it cost him $200,000. The NBA star tweeted, “3 hour traffic just to get into NY city..#C’monMan” as he was trying to leave the city after the hurricane. The tweet was quickly removed and after criticism for it, Wade decided to pay up – donating a game check to relief. The NBA Player’s Association donated $1 million.
Comedian Chelsea Handler also dipped in her pockets to help to the tune of $100,000. Bethany Frankel, a NYC native, donated $50,000. Even meany Simon Cowell (okay, he’s not really) donated $25,000.
Donations are wonderful and give if you can, but also keep not only the victims but those helping provide aid in long hours and under extreme conditions in your thoughts as well.