In times of crisis, support often transcends geographical borders. As the worst season of wildfires in Australian history continues to destroy millions of acres of land and displace thousands of residents from their homes, dozens of celebrities around the world are pledging donations and sharing links to aid organizations on their social media profiles in an effort to lend a helping hand—or a million—to the Land Down Under.
Although the bushfires first began in October, there are still no signs of them slowing down and they are expected to get worse before they get better. In order to help firefighters and those affected by the blazes, these A-listers are rallying their followers to make their own contributions or awareness posts about fundraisers and the individual part each of us can play in helping Australia overcome this natural disaster, even from overseas.
Australian natives Nicole Kidman and Kylie Minogue both donated a staggering AED 1.8 million each to fire relief efforts, expressing their respective families’ thoughts and prayers for their homeland.
Most of the Kardashian and Jenner sisters also took to Twitter to share live footage and heartbreaking facts with their hundred million fans while Selena Gomez urged others to follow suit and support in any way possible. “Absolutely devastated by the fires in Australia. Praying for everyone affected and all of the first responders. I’m making a donation and would love if you would consider doing the same if you can,” the 27-year-old singer tweeted.
American talk show host Ellen DeGeneres used her feed to retweet teenage activist Greta Thunberg’s impassioned post on climate change and the need for immediate political action while Naomi Watts paid tribute to the nation’s disappearing wildlife, posting a clip showcasing Byron Bay’s soothing nature from her last night in the Australian town.
Not only have Hollywood’s biggest stars driven support, but also the British Royal Family, with Queen Elizabeth releasing the following statement: “I have been deeply saddened to hear of the continued bushfires and their devastating impact across many parts of Australia. My thanks go out to the emergency services, and those who put their own lives in danger to help communities in need.” The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also linked their followers to a list of official Twitter accounts for the latest developing information on the fires.
Yet, the biggest impact so far may have been made by Australian comedian Celeste Barber who began a Facebook fundraiser for The New South Wales Rural Fire Service & Brigades Donations Fund that has reached a record AED 132-million in less than a week.
With millions of dirhams raised so far and the call to action summoned by those near and far, it’s clear the heroic efforts of the Australian firefighters have not gone unnoticed by those within the country and abroad.
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