The recent telecast of Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief Effort raised more than $16 million for the BET COVID-19 Relief Fund which was established to support the work of United Way for Southeastern Michigan and other United Ways in cities where the African American population has been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 crisis. For Detroit, $2,416,527.86 will initially support several frontline organizations.
BET established the BET COVID-19 Relief Fund in partnership with United Way Worldwide, with 100% of the proceeds to be divided equally among select local United Ways to disburse to their community partners, including who provide direct services and supports to individuals and families in crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief featured appearances from a who’s who of African Americans from the entertainment world, sports, civil and human rights, and the business community. A replay of the broadcast is available on BET.com.
The BET COVID-19 Relief Fund will remain open for donations through August. Those who wish to donate can go to www.BET.com or text “BETGives” to 51555. Those wanting to donate directly to United Way for Southeastern Michigan can visit www.UnitedWaySEM.org/COVID.
Recent reports show that the health outcomes and economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are disproportionately impacting the African American community. Mortality rates for COVID-19 are higher for African Americans; financial instability is being worsened by layoffs and closures in sectors like retail, hospitality, and healthcare, where African American workers are over-represented; and low-income African American students face a greater risk of learning loss and inadequate access to nutritious food with massive school closures.
In Detroit, the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the southeastern Michigan community, and especially Detroit, is significant. In the city of Detroit, 74 percent of people are living near or below the poverty line, according to United Way’s ALICE (Access Limited Income Constrained Employed) report.
“We are grateful for the support this telethon, with the help of BET, will provide for frontline impact organizations as this crisis continues, said Dr. Darienne Hudson, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “There are so many families dealing with new financial and basic needs concerns because of COVID-19. These funds will get help to where it is needed most.”
About United Way for Southeastern Michigan
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, works to help households become stable and ensure children have the support they need to thrive. For more than 100 years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable, and sustainable change in communities throughout southeast Michigan. United Way works in partnership with donors, agencies, corporate and municipal partners to help families meet their basic needs of housing, food, health care and family finances, and ensure children start school ready to learn and graduate ready for life. To give, advocate, volunteer or learn more, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.
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