Chris Hemsworth has pledged $1 million towards helping firefighters and residents affected by Australia’s catastrophic bushfires. The actor, who is best known for playing Thor in the Marvel Universe franchise, announced his donation on Instagram on Tuesday. Hemsworth recently appeared in Hugo Boss’ Man of Today campaign, saying, “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give”. It’s good to see he wasn’t simply reading a script.
It is certainly devastating to learn about the massive destruction of habitat and loss of millions of lives in the bushfires across Australia. But it is heartening to see the outpouring of love and concern. Other celebrities who have donated or pledged towards various Australian relief funds so far include Sir Elton John ($1 million), Nicole Kidman ($500,000), Pink ($500,000), Kylie Minoque ($500,000), Kylie Jenner ($1 million) and Metallica ($750,000). Many others, including Russell Crowe, Naomi Watts, Margot Robbie and Selena Gomez donated undisclosed/unconfirmed amounts while also taking to social media to appeal to their fans for help.
While most of us cannot match the financial might demonstrated by our screen heroes, we can still do our part to help. Here are the links to donate to the local state fire services, animal welfare organisations and the Red Cross:
New South Wales Rural Fire Service
South Australia Country Fire Service
Victoria Country Fire Authority
RSPCA Victoria
Here in Singapore, various relief efforts are coming together. First up, Singapore’s restaurants and watering holes are pooling together at Neon Pigeon on 12 January for the Australia Bushfire Fundraiser where 100 per cent of proceeds will be donated. See details here and give them your support.
Leading craft brewery Heart of Darkness, has also pledged to assist Australia in relief efforts. Till 24 January, every dollar from the sale of its Sacred Fire Golden Ale will go to the Australian Red Cross to support people affected by the fires in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. Drink up for a good cause, men.
The Aesop Foundation is also committed to providing meaningful long-term support, as well as immediate financial aid to victims and emergency services. It has donated A$100,000 to Australian Red Cross, and will match donations from colleagues across the globe. It will also continue to liaise with government services and NGOs at the local and national level to ensure the resources it is deploying reaches impacted communities.
Check back here for updates to other local efforts towards the Australian cause.