Selena Gomez donates to hospital while Demi Lovato taps own clothing line to help coronavirus first-responders
Selena Gomez has decided to give back to the staff at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the Los Angeles hospital where she underwent a kidney transplant in 2017. The 27-year-old singer revealed on social media on March 31 that she is making a donation to the hospital to help provide crucial coronavirus medical equipment for doctors and nurses who are working overtime to treat patients.
"So thankful for every single medical professional who is putting their health on the line to take care of others," Gomez posted on Twitter. "I'm donating to @CedarsSinai as they are low on masks and ventilators. They've taken such good care of me so it's my turn to show my gratitude," she added.
Demi Lovato is also doing her bit to help during the pandemic. Just like her friend, Lovato is donating a portion of the proceeds from her new Fabletics activewear range to aid first responders who need personal protective equipment (PPE) as they tirelessly battle those affected with the coronavirus.
According to the singer's Instagram post, Lovato almost had to cancel the April 2 launch of her latest line for Kate Hudson's fitness brand due to the pandemic. However, she decided, instead, to use the opportunity for a good cause and carry on with the release. In the caption for her message, she said, "I've really been going back and forth on if this was the right time... but decided this is a time to provide inspiration for my fans at home and to help those in need."
Her statement read: "After sitting down to reflect for a few days, we realized there's no better time to inspire others with my capsule (collection), which has always been about channeling your inner strength." She added, "I'm pleased to announce that $5 (from) every item sold will provide crucial gear to frontline workers — pledging up to $125,000 now through June 30 to support the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization, powered by the United Nations Foundation..."
She also added a positive note, "I hope you'll join me on our journey to project positivity, build inner strength, and boost each other up! This is our chance to help the people in our community who need it most during this extraordinary time."
Gomez and Lovato are among several artists providing support during the global health crisis. On March 15, Justin Timberlake announced his donation to Mid-South Food Bank, located in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee.
Justin Bieber made a donation to Beijing Chunmiao Children Aid Foundation and said, "I know it’s a very scary time in your country right now, but my prayers and support go out to you guys. You guys are amazing." Country music star Dierks Bentley closed his Nashville restaurant and gave 90 of his hourly employees $1,000 each.
It is refreshing to see that celebrities have not just been a source of entertainment for the world. When things get tough, they have provided support for those in need and encouraged a unified spirit as the world faces a pandemic together.