The American Red Cross and NBC Universal have raised $23 million thanks to a live televised concert in support of Hurricane Sandy relief efforts.
According to the Red Cross, the amount of charity support via phone traffic exceeded all other charity efforts over the last five years. In a statement regarding the concert’s success, American Red Cross Chief Marketing Officer Peggy Dyer said:
“We are incredibly grateful and humbled by this outpouring of support for those who are suffering as a result of Superstorm Sandy.”
Titled Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together, the concert brought together big name singers including Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, Steven Tyler, and Mary J. Blige. The concert also had appearances from Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey, Jon Stewart, and Danny DeVito among others.
The show include a one-hour commercial free broadcast.
During the Hurricane Sandy relief concert, singer Bon Jovi surveyed the devastation in New Jersey before performing an unplugged version of “Living on a Prayer.”
Late-night show host Jimmy Fallon said of the devastation:
“New Jersey was hit really hard. Some beaches were destroyed. Boardwalks were torn apart. But they will be rebuilt. This song is dedicated to all the good times ahead.”
Mary J. Blige said of the devastation:
“My prayers go out to everyone who was affected by the hurricane. Things are gonna get better, so please hang in there, be strong and have faith. And please, everybody watching tonight, give something, anything. Every penny counts.”
The Red Cross is using money from the concert to support shelter, food, and emotional support efforts for those people affected by Hurricane Sandy.
Money is still be collected at RedCross.org , by calling 1-800-HelpNow, and by texting the word REDCROSS to 90999. The latter option will add a $10 donation to your cellular phone bill.
