BET Launches Relief Fund, Community Partnerships And More To Help Black Americans Impacted By Coronavirus; Will Premiere Television Special Co-Hosted By Terrence J, Kelly Rowland And Regina Hall

Black Entertainment Television (BET)  announced it will be launching a series of initiatives, digital news programs, and more to help the Black community during the #coronavirus outbreak.

Black Americans are the most affected and infected group of people in terms of the coronavirus outbreak. Because of this, BET is kickstarting new initiatives that center around educating and providing financial resources to the Black community and other communities of color. Along with the initiatives, BET will also be airing a special called Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID Relief Effort.

The special will be co-hosted by Terrence, Kelly Rowland, and Regina Hall and will premiere on Wednesday, April 22, 2020. Some of the special guests include DJ Khaled, Charlie Wilson, Chance the Rapper, Kirk Franklin, Fantasia, and more. According to a press release, the new project comes as a partnership with United Way to create a relief fund for financial donations that will be given out to local charities and those in need.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is savagely compounding the profound health and financial vulnerabilities many Black Americans face. Every day, there are new reports of how this pandemic is killing African Americans at much higher rates than other communities,” said Scott Mills, President of BET. “BET is using all of our resources – our capital, our media platforms, our relationships with the creative community, sponsors, businesses, and charitable organizations to support our community in this time of crisis.”

Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET said the relief fund, digital news programs, and collaborative efforts with charities is a way to reignite solidarity amongst the community during these times. “Our goal for this special is to come together in a collective spirit of strength, community, and hope. As we unite in harmony and compassion, through the collective healing power of music, comedy, and entertainment, we can bring restoration and inspire the world that our brighter days are ahead,” said Orlando.

The network would like people to donate if they can starting Friday, April 10. Learn more about BET’s new initiatives by visiting BET.com and using the hashtag #BETCOVIDRelief.