Celebrities Leading Activism During Public Crises and Natural Disasters

Throughout the years, we have seen celebrities take the forefront in providing aid and critical support during crises and natural disasters. Their influence and access to resources have allowed these individuals to make significant impacts across the country, whether through financial contributions, direct action, or spreading positive messages. Here are a few celebs who have used their platform for more than just entertainment, demonstrating great examples of activism in times of need.

Megan Thee Stallion
The Houston native has aligned herself with giving back. Recently, her organization, the Pete and Thomas Foundation, partnered with Bread of Life, Inc. to launch the Emergency Power Program, providing generators to senior citizens across her hometown. This partnership came just weeks after the city experienced prolonged power outages following Hurricane Beryl. Beyond this initiative, Megan has been an advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement, using her music to address racial injustice and inequality. During the height of the movement, Megan held a virtual concert and took a moment of silence for Black individuals killed or injured by police officers. She has also donated to multiple causes, including COVID-19 relief, education, and underserved communities.

Bun B
Bun B, a legendary figure in the hip-hop community, has consistently shown his dedication to serving his community during tough times. In 2017, the rapper provided significant relief during Hurricane Harvey by extending his resources and offering on-the-ground assistance to those affected. Through his Trill Burgers restaurant, Bun B has launched various initiatives to support communities with food drives and fundraising events. Following Hurricane Beryl, he gave out over 1,500 burgers to Houstonians who were left without food or power.

Rihanna
Rihanna has proven to be an unstoppable force for humanitarian causes through her Clara Lionel Foundation. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Rihanna’s foundation donated millions of dollars to support marginalized communities and healthcare workers around the world. In 2019, the foundation focused on strengthening infrastructure following Hurricane Dorian, which devastated the Bahamas. Clara Lionel formed several partnerships, working on nine active projects and committing $10 million to assist other Caribbean countries.

Trae Tha Truth
In 2009, rapper Trae Tha Truth launched his charity “Angel By Nature” after the death of his brother. Through the organization, Trae has committed to being an ambassador for Habitat For Humanity, donated funds to Our Opportunity to assist businesses and entrepreneurs, and supported the U.S. Army. The foundation also plays a crucial role during natural disasters. In 2017, Trae joined forces with DJ Mr. Rogers to aid those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Their activism gained significant attention, leading them to create “Relief Gang,” which has been supporting communities for roughly seven years and has extended its reach to cities outside of Houston.

Tyler Perry
Tyler Perry often comes to the rescue when natural disasters hit. After Hurricane Katrina, Perry extended his resources to New Orleans, donating $10 million for relief efforts and providing temporary shelters for displaced individuals and families. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Perry showed his support by paying for groceries for elderly individuals and covering bills for out-of-work actors and crew members employed by his production company.