Oprah announces $12M relief will support hard-hit communities in 5 cities

Winfrey's foundation announced the cities the donation will support Wednesday.

May 20, 2020, 11:34 AM

Oprah Winfrey continues to give back amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The media mogul, who previously donated $10 million to relief efforts, announced through her foundation that she is giving an additional $2 million, bringing the total donation to $12 million.

Winfrey's charitable foundation's donation will assist organizations in places she holds close to her heart: her hometown of Kosciusko, Mississippi, Chicago, Nashville, Milwaukee and Baltimore.

Some of these organizations include NashvilleNurtures, a food relief effort started in part by Winfrey's alma mater, Tennessee State University, as well as Live Healthy Chicago, Living Classrooms Foundation, Center for Urban Families and more.

The relief efforts the donation will assist cover everything from housing support for families in need to mental health services for those affected by the pandemic.

"I’m proud to be able to support the communities I have called home," Winfrey said in a statement. "These organizations are working tirelessly on the ground to help those hit the hardest by the pandemic, meeting people where they are and serving in ways needed most."

Winfrey's donation will also benefit America's Food Fund, which was launched in April by Leonardo DiCaprio, Laurene Powell Jobs, Apple and the Ford Foundation.

"While everyone’s priority right now is to stay safer at home, I know there are many of us looking for ways to help," Winfrey wrote in a post announcing her donation to America's Food Fund last month. "I believe that America’s Food Fund will be a powerful way to make a difference for our neighbors in need."

Check out more stars who are raising awareness for various relief initiatives and giving back here.

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